Origin
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin (pro nm.)is a plant species that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is a hybrid plant that was first discovered in the 17th century in England. This plant is believed to be a cross between Mentha aquatica (water mint) and Mentha spicata (spearmint).
Common Names
This hybrid plant is commonly known as Citrus mint, Lemon mint, Bergamot mint, Orange mint, Sweet lemon mint, and Lime mint due to its uniquely bright citrus aroma.
Uses
The Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin (pro nm.) plant has a wide range of uses, it is used in aromatherapy as an essential oil because of its therapeutic properties, it is also commonly used to flavor teas, candies, and as a cooking herb. The plant is rich in anti-oxidants, and has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive and respiratory ailments.
General Appearance
This plant is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 30–60 cm. It has square stems that are covered in dark green oblong leaves with finely serrated edges. The leaves give off a strong citrus fragrance when crushed. The plant produces small white to light pink flowers that bloom in late summer.
Light Requirements
The Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin (pro nm.) plant thrives best in partial to full sun exposure. Inadequate lighting may cause the plant to have weak, spindly branches with a less than ideal output of essential oils. The plant can tolerate 4-6 hours of direct sunlight, while 6-8 hours of partial shade or dappled sunlight is considered optimal.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for the Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin (pro nm.) plant are quite specific. They prefer a cooler environment and do not tolerate extreme heat or cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 13°C and 24°C. During the summer months, it is essential to keep the plant well-watered and ensure a proper drainage system to keep it from overheating. Frost is detrimental to the plant, and late frosts can damage the new growth in spring. Thus, it is necessary to protect against frost damage by covering the plants overnight.
Soil Requirements
The Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin (pro nm.) plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil must have a good supply of organic matter to hold nutrients, retain moisture, and improve soil structure. The plant also prefers rich loam soil that is high in nitrogen. Sandy soils can result in poor growth, while heavy clay soils hinder proper drainage, which can result in root rot. A good-quality potting mix containing these elements is recommended for container-grown plants.
Cultivation Methods
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows best in areas with full sun and well-draining soil. The plant prefers a pH level of 6.0 to 7.0 and can tolerate light shade. It is recommended to propagate the plant through cuttings or division of the root clump.
Watering Needs
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata requires regular watering, especially during the summer months when the soil tends to dry out faster. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. The plant prefers soil moisture that ranges from slightly moist to moderately dry.
Fertilization
Fertilization is crucial to achieving optimal growth and productivity of Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata. Application of a balanced fertilizer that comprises nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus is recommended every four to six weeks during the growing season. The optimal ratio for fertilization is 1-2-1.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to prevent Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata from becoming invasive. It is recommended to prune the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to encourage bushy growth and prevent legginess. The best practice is to cut back the top 1/3 of the plant regularly to stimulate growth and maintain its health. Additionally, pruning can help to control pest infestation and disease development.
Propagation of Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata, commonly known as lemon mint, is a hybrid mint variety that is widely grown for its citrusy aroma and flavour. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be achieved through various methods.
Propagation by division
Mint plants, including lemon mint, can be propagated through division. To do this, mature plants can be dug up and their rhizomes (underground stems) can be divided into smaller sections. Each section should contain both roots and stems. These sections can then be planted in well-draining soil in a new location or container.
Propagation by cuttings
Lemon mint can also be propagated by taking cuttings, which can be rooted in water or soil. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and should be around 5-7 cm in length. The lower leaves on the cutting should be removed, and the stem should be inserted into a container filled with potting soil or placed in a vase filled with water. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid location, and once roots have developed, it can be transplanted.
Propagation by seed
Propagation by seed is another option for lemon mint, but it is less commonly used as it requires more time and effort. Seeds can be sown in the spring in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist, and seedlings should be thinned out once they are large enough to handle.
Disease Management
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin is a plant that can be affected by different types of diseases, such as:
- Verticillium Wilt: This disease is caused by the fungus Verticillium dahliae, which infects the vascular system of the plant, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventually death. To manage this disease, it is important to plant resistant varieties, maintain adequate soil moisture, and remove infected plants and debris from the area.
- Mint Rust: This fungal disease is caused by Puccinia menthae and affects the leaves of the plant, causing yellow-orange pustules. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected leaves and debris, promote good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
- Peppermint Drop: This disease is caused by the fungus Phoma exigua and affects the stem and leaves of the plant, causing brown spots and rotting. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected parts of the plant and debris, and avoid over-irrigation.
Pest Management
Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin can also be affected by pests such as:
- Mint Flea Beetle: This beetle feeds on the leaves of the plant, causing small holes and damage. To manage this pest, it is important to remove adult beetles manually and apply insecticides if necessary.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and damage to the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to maintain adequate soil moisture, avoid over-fertilization, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as necessary.
- Mint Root Borer: This pest affects the roots of the plant and can cause wilting and eventual death. To manage this pest, it is important to remove infected plants and avoid planting in areas with a history of root borer infestation.
It is important to regularly monitor Mentha ×piperi L. var. citrata (Ehrh.) Boivin for the presence of diseases and pests, and to take appropriate management actions to prevent their spread and minimize damage to the plant.
