C T Johansson / CC BY-SA 3.0
herb
Mint
Mentha ×muelleriana
Overview
Perhaps the most widely grown herb on earth, mint's refreshing flavor and vigorous growth have made it indispensable in kitchens, medicine cabinets, and gardens for thousands of years. Spearmint, peppermint, chocolate mint, apple mint — the variety is endless, and all share the characteristic square stems and aromatic oils of the Lamiaceae family. Fair warning: mint spreads aggressively and is best grown in containers or confined areas.
Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones5 — 11
Height0.63m
Spread0.76m
Growth HabitForb/herb
Pollinator Valuehigh
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH6 — 7
Soil TypeRich, moist, well-drained soil; extremely adaptable
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | May — Jun | Plant in containers to prevent spreading |
| Cold (1-2) | Harvest | May — Sep | Cut stems freely; pinch flowers to extend harvest |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | Apr — May | Plant in containers to prevent spreading |
| Cool (3-4) | Harvest | Apr — Oct | Cut stems freely |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Mar — May | Plant in containers; perennial to zone 3 |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Mar — Nov | Cut stems freely |
| Warm (8-9) | Transplant | Feb — Apr | Plant in containers |
| Warm (8-9) | Harvest | Feb — Nov | Harvest as needed |
| Hot (10+) | Transplant | Jan — Mar | Plant in containers |
| Hot (10+) | Harvest | Jan — Dec | Harvest year-round |
Uses
Culinary
- Fresh in tea, mojitos, and tabbouleh
- Chopped into salads, sauces, and desserts
- Dried for tea blends and seasoning
Medicinal
- Peppermint oil for IBS and digestive relief (clinically studied)
- Menthol for headache and sinus relief
- Calming tea for nausea and stomach upset
Other Uses
- Natural pest repellent for ants, mice, and aphids
- Ground cover for moist, shaded areas (caution: aggressive)
