Growing Mint, also Garden mint
(Mentha spicata)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
| S | P | P |
(Best months for planting Mint in USA - Zone 5a regions)
S = Plant undercover in seed trays. P = Plant direct in garden where they are to grow.
- Easy to grow. Grow in trays and plant out or start from cuttings. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 70°F and 75°F.
- Space plants: 12 inches apart
- Harvest in 8-12 weeks. Cut leaves from top with scissors.
- Compatible with: Cabbages, Tomatoes
- Mint leaf
Although mint can be grown from seeds, cuttings are a faster, more reliable option.
Cuttings can be planted directly when danger of frost is past.
Mint can be grown in pots outdoors or indoors
Mint prefers damp, partly shaded areas and once established will grow for many years. Mint dies down in Winter and sends up new shoots in Spring.
Mint is a rampant grower and will take over a garden bed if not restrained.
One way to contain mint is to use an old bottomless bucket pushed into the ground. The mint won't be able to put its roots out sideways, so will take longer to spread. If grown in a pot, mint needs to be watered regularly to keep it healthy.
Culinary hints - cooking and eating Mint
Mint adds a fresh flavour if chopped and sprinkled over salads. And is traditionally used mixed with vinegar and sugar to make mint sauce for lamb.
Planting reminders
This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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