Learning Download: How to Grow Mint

The two most commonly grown mint plants are spearmint and peppermint. Mint is generally used as a garnish or to flavor dishes, but it can also be a fragrant addition to any garden.

Before Planting: Mint grows best in full sun or partial shade and when planted in
organically rich soil.

Planting: Sow seeds indoors 10 weeks before the last frost or direct sow them outdoors in April or May. Plant seeds ¼ inch deep. If starting indoors, incorporating heat from the bottom will quicken the germination process. When moving mint outdoors, space the plants up to 2 feet apart.

Watering: Water regularly, 3 to 4 times a week.

Fertilizer: Since mint spreads so quickly, it is best to fertilize the plant only if it is in a container or a bed bordered by metal or plastic. For mint in a container, apply an all-purpose liquid fertilizer in the spring when new growth appears on the plant. Fertilize every four to six weeks, as frequent watering can wash away the nutrients.

Days to Maturity: Mint is generally ready to harvest once the plant has begun to flower. (See each variety for days to harvest)

Harvesting: Mint is a hardy plant that grows back quickly, so clip the leaves or entire branches as you need them throughout its growing season.

Tips: Mint spreads quickly due to its root system and can easily get out of control, which makes it do well in containers where its roots are limited in where they can grow.