Mint
Spearmint spreads with joyful aggression, filling the garden with a cool, sweet fragrance that stops you in your tracks.
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The Herb That Takes Over (and You'll Love It)
Spearmint is one of the most widely grown and recognized herbs on the planet, prized for its bright, sweet flavor that is noticeably milder and less menthol-forward than peppermint. Native to Europe and Asia, it has naturalized across virtually every temperate region of the world, turning up in cottage gardens, along stream banks, and in containers on kitchen windowsills alike.
The square stems, wrinkled lance-shaped leaves, and small lilac flower spikes are classic mint hallmarks. Spearmint is the go-to choice for culinary use - think mojitos, tabbouleh, mint sauce, and fresh teas - and its oils are widely used in everything from toothpaste to chewing gum. Bees and butterflies adore the flowers, making it a quiet pollinator powerhouse when left to bloom.
Planting & care
Plant spearmint in moist, fertile, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It tolerates partial shade better than most herbs and actually appreciates afternoon shelter in hot climates. The single most important planting tip: contain it. Mint spreads by aggressive underground runners called rhizomes, so sink a bottomless pot or a buried root barrier at least 12 inches deep, or grow it in a container outright. Space transplants 18-24 inches apart if planting in beds.
Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged - drought stress dulls the flavor and invites powdery mildew. Harvest stems regularly by snipping just above a leaf node; this encourages bushy, productive growth and delays flowering. Once it flowers, leaf quality declines, so cut the plant back by a third to refresh it. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in spring to keep growth vigorous and prevent overcrowding.
Companion Planting Secret
Tuck spearmint near brassicas, tomatoes, or peas to deter aphids, flea beetles, and cabbage moths - its volatile oils confuse and repel many common pests. Just keep it contained so it doesn't muscle out its neighbors.
How much sun does Mint need?
Mint grows best in full sun to partial shade.
How often should you water Mint?
Give it about 1-2 in per week.
When is Mint ready to harvest?
Mint is usually ready in 60-90 days from transplant; harvest before flowering for best flavor.