PlantyBoxPot and soil
A pot wider than it is deep (25-30 cm / 10-12 in), because it spreads by horizontal runners. All-purpose mix that holds some moisture. Give it its own pot: it smothers neighbours.
Light and position
Morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal. It grows in less light too, but becomes less fragrant.
Watering
Often: about every 2 days in summer; the soil should never dry out completely. Drooping leaves mean it's thirsty, and it recovers quickly.
Feeding
A leafy-plant feed every 2 weeks in spring and summer. After a hard cut it helps it regrow.
Harvest
Stems of at least 15 cm; most fragrant before flowering.
How to harvestCut above a pair of leaves; it regrows fast. Frequent picking keeps it young.
Common problems
Normal after a couple of years: divide the clump in spring and replant only the young pieces.
Rust. Cut the plant down to a few centimetres and clear the debris: it regrows healthy.
Too little light or it's flowering. Move it somewhere brighter and cut back flowering stems.
FAQ
How often should I water mint?
About every 2 days in summer, daily in hot weather: keep the soil slightly moist.
How do I harvest mint?
Cut stems just above a pair of leaves; it regrows fast. It's most fragrant just before flowering.
Does mint die in winter?
The top dies back but the roots survive and regrow in spring. Cut off dead stems and water sparingly.
