Mint

A tough, leafy herb that comes back year after year. Best grown in a pot — in open ground it spreads everywhere.

Things to look out for

  • Always grow in a pot — mint spreads aggressively in beds
  • Cut back hard mid‑season for fresh young leaves
  • Divide and refresh every 2–3 years

What to sow

Easiest from a small plant or a cutting from a friend. Mint from seed is slow and variable.

UK window: —

What to plant out

Plant in a pot of multipurpose compost, or sink a bottomless pot into the ground to keep roots in check.

UK window: Apr–Sep

How to care

Water regularly in dry spells. Trim plants back hard once or twice a season to keep fresh young leaves coming.

When to harvest

Pick sprigs from the top of the plant as needed. Pinching out tips also keeps plants bushy.

UK window: May–Oct