How to grow Mint

How to grow Mint in the garden. Learn about sun requirements, when to plant and harvest, pests and troubleshooting tips.

Mint prefers moisture retentive soil with plenty of compost mixed in. 

Plant Mint in full to partial sun. 

Mint tolerates light frost, otherwise will die back in winter and re-shoot in spring.  

Plant Mint roughly 30cm apart, although 1 plant is generally enough as Mint spreads very easily. 

Autumn or early spring is the best time to transplant Mint, however it can be planted at anytime if protected from harsh weather conditions.

If transplanting a seedling, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Mint is not a heavy feeder, a light application of organic fertiliser throughout the season is sufficient. 

Harvest Mint sprigs as needed by cutting or pinching off the tops of the stems. You can harvest up to  ⅓ of the length of the stem at one time. Both the leaves and flowers are edible. Harvesting regularly will delay flowering and keep the plants producing fresh new growth. 

Pests that can affect Mint include: Spider Mites, Thrips, Aphids, Cutworms, Snails, Slugs. 

Diseases that can affect Mint include: Mint Rust. 

Mint can be extremely invasive, so it's best to keep it contained in a large pot. If Mint is planted directly into the ground or into a garden bed, it is extremely difficult to remove once it has spread, as the runners can penetrate very deep into the soil and can travel very far.