For great taste, it’s hard to go past mint. Few herbs are as versatile, having a place in everything from curries to desserts and cocktails. Mint can even be used as a calmative, digestive and antiseptic.

Problem is, mint plants have no manners. They love cool, moist areas, and once they find the right conditions they will begin to take over whole sections of garden. So to keep mint growing only where you want it — on hand for cooking and nowhere else — plant it in a container.

The only drawback to this strategy is that containers are prone to drying out. With water restrictions in force across Australia, this means freestanding pots are probably not the best solution.

The answer? Plant the pot in the soil, leaving the rim above ground so runners don’t spread into the surrounding soil. Alternatively, leave the pot under the tap to catch the drips every time you use your hose

Step 1

Add potting mix to a plastic pot and plant the mint bush in it. Use potting mix that contains water-storing crystals — this helps the soil stay moist.

Step 2

Bury the pot with the rim 5cm above ground level — this will stop the mint roots from spreading. Spread mulch on the ground surrounding the pot and on the potting soil itself. This will help keep the roots cool and moist.

Tip

If your mint develops rust — this looks like reddish bumps on the underside of the leaves — cut the entire plant back to soil level. It will quickly regrow with fresh, disease-free leaves.

For more great ideas and practical solutions for your home see http://www.reallivingmag.com.au/