Mint (Mentha spp.) is a diverse group of aromatic herbs in the mint family (Lamiaceae), which also includes oregano, thyme, sage, and basil. Valued for their fragrant foliage and refreshing flavor, mints are widely used in beverages, desserts, sauces, and teas. Most mints are hardy perennials that return each spring and spread vigorously through underground rhizomes, making them productive garden plants but best suited to containers, raised beds, or areas where their growth can be managed.
Species, Types & Cultivars | Growing Conditions | Care | Harvest & Storage | Uses | Propagation | Potential Problems | More Information
Species, Types & Cultivars
The genus Mentha includes numerous species and hybrids, each with a distinctive flavor and aroma. All mints contain menthol, a natural organic compound that triggers cold-sensing receptors in the body. The more menthol, the "cooler" it tastes.
- Spearmint (Mentha spicata), along with peppermint, is the most commonly grown culinary mint. It has a sweet, mild flavor and is frequently used in teas, beverages, and savory dishes. 1-2 feet tall and hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 5.
- Peppermint (M. × piperita) is a hybrid between spearmint (M. spicata) and watermint (M. aquatica) and contains higher levels of menthol, giving it a stronger, cooler flavor. 1-2 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Apple mint (M. suaveolens) is known for its fruity fragrance and taste. 2-3 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Chocolate mint (M. × piperita f. citrata 'Chocolate') has dark stems with leaves having a chocolate fragrance. 1-2 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Pineapple mint (M. suaveolens 'Variegata') has white variegated leaves and is frequently grown more as an ornamental. 2-3 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Orange mint (M. × piperita f. citrata) has a citrus aroma. 1-2 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Ginger mint (M. × gracilis) is a cross between spearmint (M. spicata) and cornmint (M. arvensis) and the primary type used to flavor chewing gum. Plants are ornamental with golden leaf veins and pinkish stems. 1 foot tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Curly mint (M. spicata var. crispata) has frilly and crinkled leaves on sturdy stems, making it a nice drink garnish. 1-2 feet tall and hardy to Zone 5.
- Corsican mint (M. requienii) is considered the least rampant of the mints and makes a nice groundcover growing up to 4 inches tall. Hardy to Zone (5)6.
Growing Conditions
Mint grows best in full sun to partial shade. Plants tolerate a wide range of soils but perform best in moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Unlike many Mediterranean herbs, mint prefers consistently moist conditions and benefits from soils that retain some moisture. When temperatures are excessively warm and soil conditions dry, plants frequently develop brown leaf edges.
Because mint spreads aggressively by rhizomes and rooting stems, gardeners should carefully consider its location before planting. Containers, raised beds, or areas separated from other garden plants help prevent unwanted spread.
Most commonly grown mints are hardy to USDA Hardiness Zone 5 and therefore will survive winter in most of Iowa with little protection.
Care
Mint requires relatively little maintenance once established. Water plants during dry periods to maintain steady growth and high-quality foliage. Mulching helps conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Pinching shoot tips and harvesting regularly encourages branching and promotes fresh, tender growth. Flower spikes can be removed as they develop to maintain leaf quality and prolong foliage production.
When grown in containers, plants require more frequent watering and occasional fertilization because nutrients are depleted more quickly than in garden soils.
Harvest & Storage
Mint leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season. Frequent harvesting encourages new growth and provides the most flavorful foliage. Young leaves and stem tips typically have the best flavor.
For drying, harvest stems just before or as flower buds begin to develop, when essential oil concentrations are highest. Cut stems several inches above the soil surface, leaving enough foliage for regrowth.
Fresh mint can be stored in a glass of water for several days or refrigerated in plastic bags for up to a week. For long-term storage, dry stems in a warm, dark, well-ventilated location and store the dried leaves in airtight containers. Mint also freezes well for later use.
Uses
Mint is valued for its versatility in the kitchen. Fresh leaves flavor teas, lemonades, cocktails, fruit dishes, salads, sauces, jellies, and desserts. Spearmint is commonly paired with lamb and vegetable dishes, while peppermint is frequently used in candies, baked goods, and beverages.
The fragrant foliage is also used in potpourris, sachets, and ornamental plantings. Mint flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making the plant useful in pollinator-friendly gardens.
Propagation
Mint is most commonly propagated by division, root cuttings, or stem cuttings. These methods produce plants identical to the parent and establish quickly. Stem cuttings root readily in water or moist potting media.
While mint can be grown from seed, seedlings may vary in flavor and vigor. Vegetative propagation is generally preferred for maintaining desirable cultivars.
Established patches should be divided every three to four years to maintain vigor, reduce spreading, and prevent overcrowding.
Potential Problems
Aggresive Growth
The most common challenge with mint is its aggressive growth habit. Underground rhizomes allow plants to spread rapidly into nearby beds and borders if left unchecked. Often the easiest way to control its spread is by growing mint in containers, confined spaces, or containers sunk in the ground with the edge above the soil line.
Foliar Diseases
Fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot occasionally occur, especially when plants are crowded or air circulation is poor. Proper spacing, sanitation, and removal of infected foliage help reduce disease problems.
Insect Pests
Aphids, spider mites, and other minor pests may occasionally appear but rarely cause serious damage. Healthy, actively growing plants generally tolerate these pests well.
More Information
- Growing, Harvesting, and Drying Herbs
- Growing Herbs Indoors
- Growing Herbs in Containers
- Ornamental Herbs for Iowa
- Harvesting and Preparing Herbs for Exhibit (4-H pub)
Photo credits: 1: Cindy Haynes; 2: Chaaim AdobeStock; 3: Claudio Divizia AdobeStock; 4: tan90246 AdobeStock; 5: nahhan AdobeStock; 6: kazakovmaksim AdobeStock; 7: Ayako Hirohata AdobeStock; 8: Mary AdobeStock; imageBROKER AdobeStock; 10: Andrew Aveley/Wirestock Creators AdobeStock; 11: Paul Maguire AdobeStock; 12: Cindy Haynes; 13: Cindy Haynes