Which hydroponic system is best for spearmint?

Spearmint grows well in several systems, but the most used are NFT, ebb and flow, and bubble buckets.

What pH does hydroponic spearmint prefer?

The pH level for spearmint should be kept between 6.0 and 7.0, and NPK fertilizer should be applied for an increased yield of essential oil.

Growing Spearmint Hydroponically

Q: What temperature does hydroponic spearmint need?

The recommended temperature to grow hydroponic spearmint is 55 to 70 °F.

Spearmint is also known as lamb mint, mackerel mint, and garden mint. With its mild taste, it is often paired with various types of savory dishes, like lamb and other roasted meats.

Hydroponics of Spearmint

Hydroponic System

Hydroponic spearmint can grow well in several systems. However, the most used are NFT, ebb and flow system, and bubble buckets.

Temperature

Recommended temperature to grow hydroponic spearmint is 55-to-70-degree Fahrenheit.

Nutrient Solution

The pH level most for spearmint should be kept between 6.0 and 7.0. In addition, for an increased yield of essential oil, NPK fertilizer should be applied.

Nutritional Profile of Spearmint

Following are the nutrients that make up 100g of spearmint.

Energy

This serving provides energy worth of 44 kcal. (FoodData Central, 2019)

Carbohydrates

The highest concentration in 100g of spearmint is of carbohydrates at 8.41g. (FoodData Central, 2019)

Other Micronutrients

Spearmint is believed to be a good source of essential proteins and vitamins B and C. (FoodData Central, 2019)

ORAC Value

The ORAC count of spearmint is 1270.

Health Benefits of Spearmint

Improvement in Memory

Some studies carried out on mice showed that spearmint extract helps with improved memory and learning. Moreover, a recent study was carried out with older adults who suffer from memory impairments. When given spearmint, their working memory was found to have improved by 15%. Therefore, this spice can serve as a memory enhancer for older adults. (Kelli A. Herrlinger, 2018)

Chemistry of Spearmint

The primary constituents found in spearmint are limonene, germacrene D, 1,8-cineole, and carvone. (Antonios Chrysargyris, 2017)

References

Antonios Chrysargyris, E. N. (2017). Vegetative, physiological, nutritional and antioxidant behavior of spearmint (Mentha spicata L.) in response to different nitrogen supply in hydroponics. Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 52–61.
FoodData Central. (2019, April 1). U.S. Department of Agriculture. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173475/nutrients
Kelli A. Herrlinger, K. M. (2018). Spearmint Extract Improves Working Memory in Men and Women with Age-Associated Memory Impairment. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 37–47.