Peppermint Planting Guide
Vigorous menthol-rich mint best grown from divisions or starts and often contained in pots
Best Time and Place to Plant Mint
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Peppermint in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 55F to 75F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 1 to June 15 | August 1 to August 30 |
| Zone 2 | April 20 to June 10 | August 10 to September 15 |
| Zone 3 | April 10 to May 30 | August 15 to September 30 |
| Zone 4 | April 1 to May 20 | August 20 to October 1 |
| Zone 5 | March 20 to May 15 | August 25 to October 10 |
| Zone 6 | March 10 to May 10 | September 1 to October 20 |
| Zone 7 | March 1 to May 1 | September 10 to November 1 |
| Zone 8 | February 15 to April 20 | September 20 to November 15 |
| Zone 9 | February 1 to April 10 | October 1 to December 1 |
| Zone 10 | January 15 to March 30 | October 15 to December 15 |
| Zone 11 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 12 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
| Zone 13 | Year-round to Year-round | Varies |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: Plant a rooted division or nursery start at pot depth; grow in a container or edged bed to prevent spreading.
- Spacing: 18 inches apart, 24 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 55F to 75F
- Sunlight: 4+ hours
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in containers
- Days to harvest: 60
Fertilization
- Compost organic: Top-dress lightly in spring
- Balanced liquid fertilizer synthetic: Half strength monthly in containers
Companion Plants
- Cabbage
- Tomatoes
- Peas
Avoid Planting Near
- Parsley
- Open garden beds without containment
Harvest Signs
- Stems are 6-8 inches long
- Leaves are fragrant before flowering
- Cut above a node to encourage regrowth
FAQs
When should I plant Mint?
Mint planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Mint?
The best time of year to plant Mint is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 55F to 75F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is March 1 to May 1. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Mint?
Plant Peppermint in a spot with 4+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 55F to 75F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 24 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Mint?
Plant Mint about 18 inches apart, with rows around 24 inches apart.
What grows well with Mint?
Mint is commonly paired with Cabbage, Tomatoes, Peas.