How to grow Mint in Australia
An easy-going herb for sun or part shade in moist, fertile soil, happiest when the roots stay damp. Water regularly so it never dries out, and cut it back hard to keep fresh leaves coming and stop it flowering.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Beginner
- Sun: Part shade
- Water: 5 litres a week, watered every 2 days
- Spacing: 30 cm
- Time to harvest: 70 days
- Time to germinate: 14 days
- Soil pH: 6 to 7
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | March to October | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | March to October | |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | March to October | |
| Melbourne & Victoria | March to October | Hardy perennial; extends Mar to Oct. Dies back in winter but regrows spring. Frost-hardy. |
| Adelaide & SA | March to September | Mediterranean: extend window slightly. Mint hardy; best growth during cool months Mar to Oct. |
| Perth & WA | March to September | Mediterranean: extend window slightly. Mint hardy; best growth during cool months Mar to Oct. |
| Tasmania | September to March | Plant Sep to Mar. Dies back in winter and returns in spring. Fully hardy. |
| Canberra & ACT | March to October | Mint is hardy perennial; spreads vigorously; plant in contained area; thrives in Canberra's cool season. |
| North Queensland | May to November | Dry season main window. Mint spreads year-round but thrives May to Nov. |
| Darwin & Top End | May to November | Dry season main window. Mint spreads year-round but thrives May to Nov. |
Companion planting
Good companions
Avoid planting near
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Snip sprigs once the plant is leafy, with best flavour before flowering. Cut stems above a leaf pair, and regular harvesting keeps it bushy and productive.
Storage
Fridge with stems in water, up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays.