How to Grow Mint

Updated June 2026

A year-round herb for the home garden across the warmer US.

What it looks like as it grows

Mint is a rewarding year-round crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

In frost-free regions mint can be grown almost year-round. Elsewhere, plant in the milder months on either side of summer. See your region on the mint page for exact timing.

Varieties

Spearmint, All-purpose culinary mint (garden centers)
Mojito Mint, Mild, classic for drinks (garden centers)

How to grow it

Sun & soil: part sun to light shade, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
Spacing: about 12 in between plants.
Sowing: barely cover the seed.
Water: roughly 1.3 gal per plant every 2 days in hot weather.
Containers: grows well in a pot of 8 in+ (keep contained, spreads aggressively).

Pests & problems

In humid regions, Rust and Verticillium wilt can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Mint is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant mint where you garden.

See also: Mint in the plant library →

See what to plant this month

Pick your region for a month-by-month calendar tuned to your climate.

Find your region →