Mint should be ready to harvest this month — check for size and colour.
Growing Calendar
This month: May
Log to journalReady to harvest now
- •Check size and ripeness
- •Harvest regularly
- •Store or use fresh
Watch Out For
Spreads aggressively through runners
always plant in a container and sink it into the ground to stop roots escaping
Mint rust causes orange spots
remove and burn affected stems immediately; do not compost rust-infected material
Rust-infected plants should not be composted
dispose of them in the bin to prevent spreading rust spores to healthy plants nearby
Grown Organically
Every method in this guide works with natural systems — no synthetic chemicals, no shortcuts.
Read our approachCommon Questions
About growing Mint in the UK
Why does mint spread so aggressively?
Mint spreads via underground stolons (horizontal roots) that can travel 30–60cm or more per season. To contain it, plant mint in a buried pot or a dedicated container. Even surrounded by a physical barrier, it will eventually escape if not monitored.
When should I cut mint back?
Cut mint back hard (to about 10cm above the ground) after flowering in late summer. This stimulates a fresh flush of tender young growth. In spring, remove any dead stems from the previous year to encourage new shoots from the base.
Can I grow mint from cuttings?
Yes — mint is one of the easiest plants to propagate from cuttings. Take a 10cm cutting, remove lower leaves, and place in water or moist compost. Roots form within 1–2 weeks and can be potted on.
Which mint variety is best for cooking?
Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is the standard culinary mint used in cooking, sauces and drinks. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) is stronger and better for teas. Apple mint and chocolate mint are milder alternatives worth trying.
Member guides
There's more to growing Mint than this guide covers.
Seasonal reminders, deeper guides, and the small adjustments that change a harvest.
