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Herb
Mint

Mints in Cambridge

Mentha spp.

Mint is a hardy, vigorous herb that grows well in the ground or in pots across the UK. It spreads quickly, so containers or a contained bed are usually the easiest way to keep it under control.

Height60cm
SunlightPartial Shade
WaterModerate Water

Growing Guide

Step-by-step instructions for growing Mint

Planting Calendar

Seed DirectLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
TransplantLater
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
HarvestNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
MaintenanceNow
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Growing Guide for

Change the guide to see different planting timelines and tips.

Plant mint in a contained bed or sunk pot if you want it in the soil. It spreads by runners, so containment is the main job.

  1. Sow Seeds

    26 Feb – 26 Apr

    Sow seed thinly on the surface of seed compost around 26th February - 26th April and barely cover it. Keep the compost evenly moist while the seedlings emerge.

  2. Pot On Seedlings

    17 Apr – 1 May

    Prick seedlings out into individual pots from 17th April once they are easy to handle. Grow them on until roots fill the pot and the plants are sturdy.

  3. Harden Off

    29 Mar – 12 Apr

    From 29th March, acclimatise plants outside over about 10 days before planting them out. Keep them out of cold wind and bring them in if a late cold spell is forecast.

  4. Plant Out

    15 May – 29 May

    Set plants into prepared ground from 15th May, spacing them so air can move around the clump. Water in thoroughly straight after planting and keep them watered until they are properly rooted.

  5. Contain Spread

    22 May – 28 Sept
    every 3 weeks

    From 22nd May, check runners and cut them back before they root where you do not want them. In the ground, this is the main job that keeps mint tidy and stops it taking over.

  6. Pinch And Harvest

    17 Jul – 28 Sept
    every 2 weeks

    Begin picking from 17th July once the plants have bulked up. Pinch out the tips often from 17th July to 28th September and harvest regularly to keep fresh growth coming.

Companion Plants

Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Mint.

Good companions

Plants to avoid

Why companion planting matters

Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.

Suggested Varieties

Popular varieties of Mint to consider

Spearmint

A classic, sweet mint for tea, sauces, and salads. It is a strong grower and a good choice for pots.

Peppermint

A sharper mint with a strong menthol flavour. It grows well in a container and is best picked young for the cleanest taste.

Chocolate Mint

A milder mint with a hint of cocoa in the scent. It spreads just as freely as other mints, so keep it contained.

Also in nearby towns

See how Mint timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.