How to Grow Mint in Australia
A year-round herb crop for the home garden
Growing Mint rewards a little local know-how, and in the right season the plants do most of the work for you. It is rated beginner to grow. Saves ~$2-4/week, one plant provides more mint than you can ever use.
This guide covers when to plant Mint in your region, the position and soil it likes, how to sow and space it, day-to-day care, the pests and diseases to watch, and how to harvest and store your crop.
When to Plant in Your Region
Mint is a year-round crop, fully frost-hardy. In subtropical South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Timing shifts with your climate, so choose your region below for a local calendar.
Position and Soil
Give Mint part sun to light shade. It does best in free-draining soil with a pH around 6 to 7. Dig through plenty of compost before planting, and mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds down. It grows happily in a pot of 20cm+ (keep contained, spreads aggressively), which makes it a fine choice for balconies and courtyards.
Sowing and Spacing
Sow seed on the surface, barely covered. Thin or space plants to about 30 cm apart. Seedlings usually appear in around 14 days, fastest when the soil is between 15 and 22 degrees.
Plant in a pot, it will take over a bed otherwise.
Care
Water consistently, roughly 5 L per plant every 2 days in warm weather, less in cool or wet spells. Feed every few weeks through the growing season with a balanced organic fertiliser, and keep mulch topped up.
Pests and Diseases
The main diseases to watch are Rust and Verticillium wilt. Good spacing, watering at the base rather than over the leaves, and crop rotation prevent most problems. See our Pest and Disease Guide to identify and fix any issue.
Harvesting and Storage
Mint is typically ready to harvest in around 70 days (about 2 months). Fridge with stems in water, up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays.
In the Kitchen
In the kitchen, mint is good fresh in drinks, mojitos and teas, chopped into tabbouleh and raita, added to pea soup and lamb dishes and blended into mint sauce or chutney. Nutritionally: soothes digestive system and reduces bloating and contains menthol for natural freshness.
Companion Planting
Mint grows well alongside Cabbage and Tomato. Keep it away from Parsley. Our Companion Planting Guide has the full pairings.
Track Your Mint Growing
Add mint to your garden in the Planting Season app and get reminders for planting, care and harvest, tuned to your region.
Open the App →Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Mint in Australia?
Mint is a year-round crop. In subtropical regions like South-East Queensland it is sown in March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October. Timing changes with your climate, so use the calendar above for your region.
How long does Mint take to grow?
Mint is generally ready to harvest in around 70 days (about 2 months).
Can I grow Mint in a pot?
Yes. Mint grows well in a container of 20cm+ (keep contained, spreads aggressively) with free-draining mix and regular watering.
How much sun does Mint need?
Give it part sun to light shade for the healthiest growth and best harvest.
See also: Mint in the Plant Library
