Mint Herb Seeds

Mint is a vigorous perennial culinary herb grown for its refreshing aromatic leaves. It prefers consistent moisture and is particularly well suited to containers, which also help control its spreading growth.

Quick Start

• Sowing season: Spring and autumn
• Sowing depth: Surface sow to approximately 1mm
• Germination: 10–14 days; allow up to 21 days
• Germination temperature: approximately 15–22°C
• Plant spacing: approximately 30cm
• Position: Full sun to partial shade
• Mature height: approximately 30–60cm
• First useful harvest: approximately 60–90 days
• Life cycle: Hardy perennial
• Container growing: Recommended to control spread

When to Sow

For most Australian climates, sow during:

Spring and autumn

General guidance:

• Cool climates: spring to early summer
• Temperate climates: spring and autumn
• Subtropical climates: autumn through spring
• Tropical climates: favour the cooler months
• Hot and arid climates: autumn and spring

Seeds can also be started under protected conditions where suitable light, moisture and temperature can be maintained.

Sowing

Mint is easiest to establish in trays, cells or small pots because the seed is extremely fine.

1. Fill containers with fine seed-raising mix.
2. Moisten the mix before sowing.
3. Scatter the seeds thinly across the surface.
4. Press gently into contact with the moist mix.
5. Leave uncovered or apply only a very fine covering, no deeper than approximately 1mm.
6. Mist gently or bottom water so the seed is not displaced.
7. Keep the surface consistently moist.
8. Provide good light during germination.
9. Transplant once seedlings are established and easy to handle.

Germination

Expect germination in approximately:

10–14 days

Allow up to 21 days where emergence is slower or uneven.

Aim for approximately:

15–22°C

Do not allow the surface of the seed-raising mix to dry out while the tiny seedlings establish.

Position & Spacing

Grow in:

Full sun to partial shade

Allow approximately:

30cm between plants

Use fertile, consistently moist but well-drained soil.

In hot climates, afternoon shade can help reduce wilting and maintain tender foliage.

Watering

Mint prefers more consistent moisture than many Mediterranean herbs.

Water when the upper soil begins to dry, thoroughly moistening the root zone before allowing excess water to drain.

Avoid:

• repeatedly allowing the root zone to dry completely;
• permanently waterlogged soil; and
• leaving containers sitting in water.

Container-grown mint may require frequent watering during hot weather.

Feeding

Mint grows vigorously in reasonably fertile soil.

Incorporate mature compost or another suitable soil amendment before planting where required.

Container-grown plants can be fed periodically during active growth.

Harvesting & Pruning

Begin useful harvesting from approximately:

60–90 days after sowing

Cut healthy young stems just above a pair of leaves.

Regular harvesting encourages branching and fresh leafy growth.

If plants become tall or untidy, they can be cut back more firmly during active growth to encourage new shoots.

Managing Mint's Spread

Mint spreads through underground runners and can become difficult to contain in open soil.

For most home gardens, a dedicated container is the simplest option.

If growing directly in a garden bed, remove unwanted runners and shoots before they become established.

Growing Mint in Pots

Use a pot approximately:

25–30cm wide or larger

with:

• good drainage holes;
• quality potting mix;
• full sun to partial shade; and
• regular watering.

Larger pots retain moisture more consistently and provide additional room for the spreading root system.

Divide crowded plants and replant healthy sections when required.

Mint vs Lemon Balm

Mint has a cooler, more traditional mint flavour.

For a softer citrus character and pronounced lemon fragrance, see Lemon Balm Herb Seeds.

Mint Herbs vs Mint Microgreens

This guide is for growing mature perennial mint plants.

For tray-grown young shoots harvested at the microgreen stage, see Mint Microgreen Seeds.

Harvest & Storage

Harvest healthy leaves and tender stem tips as required.

Fresh mint is best used soon after picking but can be refrigerated for short-term storage.

For longer storage, leaves can be frozen or dried. Dry foliage completely in a shaded, well-ventilated location before storing in an airtight container.

Seed Storage

Store unused seed sealed in a cool, dry and dark place away from heat, moisture and direct sunlight.