Mint care guide: when & how to prune, fertilize and spray
Mentha spp. · USDA zones 3–9
Vigorous, spreading perennial herb. Grow it in a container or behind a buried barrier so it doesn't take over the garden.
☀️ Sun
Sun to part shade.
💧 Water
Moist soil.
🪱 Soil
pH 6.0–7.0. Rich, moist. Compost.
How and when to prune mint
Cut back last year's growth
When: from 4 weeks before the last spring frost until the last spring frost.
- zones 3–5: about Apr 12 – May 10
- zones 6–7: about Mar 18 – Apr 15
- zones 8–10: about Jan 28 – Feb 25
Old mint stems shelter overwintering beneficial insects and protect the crown in winter. Cutting them in late winter clears the way for fresh growth.
- Cut all of last year's dead stems down to the ground.
- Do it before new shoots get tall, so you don't snip them by accident.
- Leave the cut stems loosely on the ground or in a brush pile for a few weeks so emerging bees can escape, then compost them.
Tools: Bypass pruners or hedge shears
Midsummer cut-back
When: 10–12 weeks after the last spring frost.
- zones 3–5: about Jul 19 – Aug 2
- zones 6–7: about Jun 24 – Jul 8
- zones 8–10: about May 6–20
A hard cut before flowering gives a flush of tender, flavorful new leaves.
- Cut all stems back to 2–3 in (5–8 cm) and harvest the cuttings.
Common mint problems and how to fix them
Mint rust
Signs: Orange pustules under the leaves.
What to do: Cut to the ground and remove the debris.
Mint care FAQ
When should I prune mint?
Cut back last year's growth: from 4 weeks before the last spring frost until the last spring frost (around Mar 18 – Apr 15 in zones 6–7). Midsummer cut-back: 10–12 weeks after the last spring frost (around Jun 24 – Jul 8 in zones 6–7). Vigorous, spreading perennial herb. Grow it in a container or behind a buried barrier so it doesn't take over the garden.
What soil does mint need?
Rich, moist. Preferred pH 6.0–7.0. Compost.
How much sun and water does mint need?
Sun: Sun to part shade. Water: Moist soil.
What are common mint problems?
Mint rust: Orange pustules under the leaves. Cut to the ground and remove the debris.
More herbs care guides
Timings are given relative to your average frost dates, with examples for typical US climates. Always read and follow product labels.