How to grow mint without it taking over

Mint is easy to grow, which is exactly the problem. It spreads by underground runners and can take over a bed within a season. In a container it is a delight.

Keep it in its own pot

Grow mint in a pot, by itself. Do not plant several herbs together in one container, because mint will crowd the others out. If you must plant mint in the ground, sink a bottomless bucket or a large pot into the soil with the rim just above the surface, so the runners cannot escape.

Mint runners can also sneak out through drainage holes if a pot stands on bare soil. Stand the pot on a saucer, or on paving.

Light

Mint does best in bright light and tolerates partial shade. In a hot climate a spot with afternoon shade is kinder. FloraPulse lists mint as liking bright light.

Watering

Mint likes moist soil. Do not let it dry out completely. As a starting point, water about every 3 days in warm weather, and check the soil. In a small pot in summer it may need water every day.

Feeding

Feed about every 3 weeks in the growing season with a balanced fertilizer at the label rate. Do not overdo it. Mint is vigorous and does not need much.

Harvest and pruning

Pick often. Cutting stems back promotes bushy new growth and stops the plant getting woody. Cut just above a pair of leaves, and take up to a third of the plant at a time. Remove flower stalks when they appear, because flowering slows leaf growth and makes leaves less flavorful.

Refreshing an old plant

Mint gets tired after a couple of years. In spring, take the plant out of the pot, divide the root mass, and replant a healthy piece in fresh soil. Pass the rest to a friend or compost it.

Mint varieties

Peppermint, spearmint and others have different flavors and all spread in the same way. If you want more than one, give each its own pot, because their runners tangle together if they share a pot.

A note for pet owners

Mint is listed by the ASPCA as toxic to cats and dogs. See the mint page for the result and keep the pot where pets cannot reach it. It is a good plant for a high shelf.

FloraPulse can remind you to water and to cut mint back so it stays productive.