All you need is an empty plastic bottle and a handful of peppermint to enjoy fresh leaves year-round. This space-saving, water-efficient, and eco-friendly DIY method is perfect for balconies, windowsills, or even indoors. Letโs break it down step by step:
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โข 1 plastic bottle (2L or larger)
โข Peppermint seeds or cuttings
โข Rich potting soil with organic matter
โข Sharp scissors or knife
โข Cotton wick (optional, for self-watering)
โข Water and a spray bottle
โข Wash the bottle thoroughly and remove the label
โข Cut it in half horizontally
โข Make a few drainage holes in the bottom part
โข For self-watering: make a small hole in the cap and insert the cotton wick
โข Mix your soil with compost for added nutrients
โข Moisten it slightly before planting
โข For cuttings: soak them in water until they root
โข For seeds: plant about 0.5 to 1 cm deep
โข Choose a spot with 4 to 6 hours of sunlight a day
โข Fill the bottom half of the bottle with water
โข Invert the top half (with soil and plant) into it
โข The cotton wick will draw up water as needed
โข Keep the soil consistently moistโnot soaked
โข Mist the leaves if growing indoors
โข Water when the top layer of soil feels dry
โข Use compost tea or fish emulsion every 3โ4 weeks
โข Avoid over-fertilizing โ peppermint is a vigorous grower!
โข For aphids/spider mites: spray with neem oil or soapy water
โข For fungi: ensure good airflow and avoid soggy soil
โข For slugs: sprinkle crushed eggshells around the plant base
โข Begin harvesting once your plant is bushy enough
โข Frequent trimming encourages more leafy growth
โข Pinch off flower buds to keep the leaves coming
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