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Holly's Homestead — Perennial Herb

Mint

Mentha spp. · Mint family
DIFFICULTY Easy (can be invasive)
TYPE Herbaceous perennial
MATURITY Usable from 6–8 weeks
Sun
Part sun–shade
Water
Regular, doesn't like drying out
Soil pH
6.0–7.0
Spacing
Contain in a pot
Depth
as per pot

01Contain the roots

Mint spreads aggressively by runners and will take over a garden bed. Grow it in a large buried pot or a dedicated contained area to keep it in check.

02Planting

Method
Plant a nursery seedling, or strike a cutting in water — mint roots very easily.
Soil
Rich, moisture-retentive.
Timing
Plant any time in mild weather; establishes quickly.

03Growing care

  • Keep well watered — mint wilts fast if it dries out.
  • Cut back hard periodically to keep growth fresh and bushy.
  • Contain the roots in a pot, even if planted in the ground.
  • Divide and repot every couple of years to keep it vigorous.

04Problems

  • Rust — orange spotting on leaves; remove affected stems, improve airflow.
  • Spreading out of bounds — the main risk; keep roots contained.
  • Powdery mildew — humid, crowded conditions; thin out growth.
  • Aphids — occasional cluster on tips; hose off.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Usable once the plant is established, virtually year-round in mild climates.
Method
Snip stems as needed; regular picking keeps it bushy.
Curing
Air-dry or freeze in ice cube trays with water.
Storage
Fresh in the fridge about a week; dried, airtight for months.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
CabbageTomato
Avoid nearby
Anywhere roots aren't contained
Rotation note
Not applicable — contained perennial.