Mint: Vigorous Herb That Needs a Cage
Mentha spp.
Mint is unstoppable — peppermint, spearmint, chocolate mint, mojito mint. Plant it in a container or buried bucket unless you want it everywhere. Once established, you'll have mint forever for tea, cocktails, and cooking.
Sun
Part sun
Water
Moderate
Hardiness zones
3–8
Height
1–3 ft
Bloom time
Summer (optional)
Care & Growing Tips
Plant in a container or buried bottomless bucket — ground planting leads to invasion. Water regularly. Cut back hard mid-summer to force fresh growth. Divide every year to keep clumps vigorous. Flavor is best before flowering.
Companion Plants
Design your mint garden
See mint in your own yard before you plant. Upload a photo to Arden and visualize complete garden designs featuring mint alongside companion plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1 How do I keep mint from taking over?
Plant in a container, a raised bed with root barriers, or a buried bucket with the bottom cut out. Never plant directly in the garden unless you want a mint patch that won't quit.
Q2 Which mint variety should I grow for cooking?
Spearmint is the all-purpose culinary mint — best for tabbouleh, lamb, and tea. Peppermint is stronger (good for cocktails and desserts). Mojito mint (Mentha × villosa) is specifically milder for cocktails. Chocolate mint adds dessert flavor.
Q3 Why is my mint flowering? Should I let it?
Mint flowers when stressed by heat or age — flavor weakens in flowering stems. Pinch flower buds off or cut back hard (to 4 inches) to force fresh leafy growth. Bees love the flowers if you do let some bloom; just keep some stems pinched for cooking.