Mint is one of the most popular herbs grown in the home garden, and also one of the easiest to grow. But here in Zone 9 mint production can drastically slow down during the hottest days of summer and coldest days of winter. Preserving the mint leaves will ensure a year round supply. Here is one way to do it:
- Harvest the leaves
- Obtain a clean ice cube tray
- Place 5-10 leaves in each cube
- Fill with water and freeze
- Store cubes in a freezer bag
1. Harvest the Leaves
– Mint is a very hardy plant and at times will grow rapidly. Harvesting the top 1/3rd of the plant should be done about 3 times a year. This should give you enough mint to fill an ice cube tray with 1 large plant or 2 smaller ones.
2. Obtain a clean ice cube tray
Ice cube trays can be found at any big box (Walmart or Target) store and most grocery stores. Pick one that the cubes will be about the size of a mint leaf if possible.
3. Place 5-10 leaves in each cube
– Place enough leaves to fill the cube with space for water to cover them completely. This can take 5-10 leave (or more, depending on size)
4. Fill with water and freeze
– Fill the tray with enough water to cover all the leaves and place in the freezer. Let it freeze for a day or two to ensure a good hard freeze.
5. Store in a freezer bag
– The frozen ice cubes with mint can be easily stored in a freezer bag (or any convient, salable container)
When ready to use the mint, simply thaw how ever many cubes you need and use it as your normally would, or place them strait into a drink for a fresh mint burst as the cubes melt!
