How to Grow Spearmint

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a vigorous perennial herb prized for its sweet, mild mint flavor and aromatic foliage. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, moist soil, and moderate temperatures. This guide explains planting, germination, care, harvesting, and climate considerations suitable for all regions.

Where Should You Plant Spearmint?

  • Best location: Full sun to partial shade; spearmint stays lush with good light but tolerates shade well.
  • Soil: Moist, well‑drained, nutrient‑rich soil; pH 6.0–7.5.
  • Moisture: Consistent moisture; spearmint prefers evenly damp soil and spreads rapidly in moist areas.

When Should You Plant Spearmint?

  • Start indoors: Begin cuttings or divisions indoors anytime; seeds can be started 6–8 weeks before transplanting.
  • Transplanting: Move outdoors once frost danger has passed and soil is workable.
  • Direct sow: Less common; most gardeners use rooted cuttings or divisions for faster establishment.

How Do You Plant Spearmint?

  • Depth: Plant rooted cuttings or divisions at the same depth they grew previously.
  • Spacing: Space plants 12–18 inches apart; spearmint spreads aggressively by runners.
  • Quantity: A few plants can fill a bed; use containers or barriers to control spread.

Which Plants Grow Well With Spearmint?

  • Companions: Cabbage, tomatoes, carrots, and marigolds.
  • Avoid: Very dry‑soil plants that dislike the moisture spearmint prefers.
  • Best pairing: Moisture‑loving herbs and vegetables that enjoy similar conditions.

How Do You Water and Feed Spearmint?

  • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist; do not allow plants to dry out completely.
  • Feeding: Apply compost or a light balanced fertilizer to support leafy growth.

How Do You Care for Spearmint?

  • Support: No support needed; plants form dense clumps and spreading mats.
  • Weeding: Spearmint competes well, but keep beds tidy to maintain airflow and reduce disease risk.
  • Containment: Use edging or containers to prevent spearmint from overtaking nearby plants.

Can You Grow Spearmint in Containers?

  • Container size: Minimum 8–10 inches deep; containers help control spearmint’s spreading habit.
  • Winter growing: Possible indoors with bright light; spearmint adapts well to pots near windows.

What Pests or Diseases Affect Spearmint?

  • Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and leafhoppers.
  • Diseases: Rust and leaf spot; ensure good airflow and avoid overhead watering.

How Do You Harvest Spearmint?

  • Timing: Harvest once plants are well‑established; flavor is strongest just before flowering.
  • Leaves: Cut stems and strip leaves; regular harvesting encourages fresh growth.
  • Seeds: Rarely used; most propagation is by division or cuttings.