Plant Profile

MintMentha

Mint is an indispensable herb in every garden, known for its refreshing aroma and versatile uses in cuisine and traditional medicine. From invigorating teas to aromatic desserts, mint enriches the diet and also offers ecological benefits as a bee pasture. Its robust nature and rapid growth make it a popular choice for gardeners, but also require careful site selection and, if necessary, measures to control its spread.

HerbsMint family
Calendar
Mint (Mentha): plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest May - October
Mint: plant portrait. harvest: May - October.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest
Indoor sowingDirect sowing outdoorsPlanting outdoorsHarvest

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bedRaised bedContainerBalconyGreenhouse

Good neighbors

CabbagetomatoRose

Avoid

parsleyChamomileMost other herbs

Indoor & direct sowing

Mint: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

For an earlier harvest, mint can be pre-cultured indoors.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing after the last frost, when the soil is warm enough.

Seed depth0.2 - 0.5 cm
Germination temp18 - 22 °C
Germination time7 - 14 days
Light germinatorYes
Dark germinatorNo
Cold germinatorNo
Stratification neededNo
Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Mint: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Plant out seedlings after the last expected frosts (Ice Saints).

WindSheltered, but not strictly necessary.
Plant spacing30 - 45 cm
Row spacing40 - 60 cm
Plants per m²4 - 9 per m²
Bed widthfrom 30 cm

Temperature & frost

Mint: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 5 °C
Optimal temperature18 - 25 °C
Max. heatup to 30 °C
Soil temperature10 - 15 °C
Frost sensitiveNo
Late frost sensitiveNo
Heat tolerancemedium
Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

Mint: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium
Critical water phasesDuring germination, During dry periods
Watering methodBottom watering
Droughtmedium
Waterlogging sensitiveYes
Mulching recommendedYes
Nutrient needmedium feeder
Compost recommendedYes
Fertilizer sensitivitymedium

Container & growth

Mint: Container, support and growth

Container suitableYes
Pot sizeVolume: from 5 l; Recommended: from 10 l; Diameter: from 20 cm; Depth: from 20 cm
SupportNo
Height30 - 90 cm
Width30 - 100 cm
Root depth15 - 30 cm
Root spread30 - 100 cm

Year plan

Mint Calendar

Plants

From May to October, you can continuously harvest fresh mint leaves.

Year overview
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Indoor sowing
Direct sowing outdoors
Planting outdoors
Harvest

Relevant now

June

  • Continuous harvestRegular harvesting keeps the plant productive and prevents flowering (which can reduce aroma).
  • Control spreadCheck root barriers or remove runners.
  • Water regularlyMint requires consistently moist soil.

Next up

July

  • Continuous harvestIdeal for fresh consumption or drying.
  • Control spreadPrevent aggressive spread.
  • Water regularlyEspecially important during hot and dry periods.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

Direct sowingPlantingHarvestGrowing

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Pre-culture indoorsDivide old plants

Direct sowing

  • Pre-culture indoorsFor an earlier harvest and stronger plants.

Planting

  • Divide old plantsTo rejuvenate and propagate mint.

April

Direct sowing outdoorsPlant out seedlings

Direct sowing

  • Direct sowing outdoorsAfter the last frost, when the soil has warmed up.

Planting

  • Plant out seedlingsTransplant pre-cultured plants into beds or pots. Consider root barriers!

May

Plant out seedlingsFirst harvestWater regularly

Planting

  • Plant out seedlingsLast opportunity to plant out seedlings.

Harvest

  • First harvestHarvest young shoots to encourage bushy growth.

Growing

  • Water regularlyEnsure sufficient moisture, especially during dry weather.

June

Continuous harvestControl spreadWater regularly

Harvest

  • Continuous harvestRegular harvesting keeps the plant productive and prevents flowering (which can reduce aroma).

Growing

  • Control spreadCheck root barriers or remove runners.
  • Water regularlyMint requires consistently moist soil.

July

Continuous harvestControl spreadWater regularly

Harvest

  • Continuous harvestIdeal for fresh consumption or drying.

Growing

  • Control spreadPrevent aggressive spread.
  • Water regularlyEspecially important during hot and dry periods.

August

Continuous harvestWater regularly

Harvest

  • Continuous harvestThe aroma is still very good.

Growing

  • Water regularlyContinue to ensure moist soil.

September

Last major harvestPrepare for winter

Harvest

  • Last major harvestHarvest larger quantities before the first frost and dry or freeze them.

Growing

  • Prepare for winterCut back plants and mulch if necessary.

October

Light harvestApply winter protection

Harvest

  • Light harvestHarvest small quantities only as needed.

Growing

  • Apply winter protectionCover with leaves or brushwood, especially for young plants or in harsh climates.

November

Quiet month

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Mint Flowering & pollination

Flowering period

June to September

Flower type

Small flowers in terminal or axillary false whorls

Flower color

White, Pink, Purple

Self-fertility

partially self-fertile

Pollinator needed

yes

Overview

Mint is primarily pollinated by insects, especially bees and other flying insects.

Notes

The flowers are small but numerous and attract many insects.

Companion guide

Mint Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

CabbagetomatoRose

Avoid

parsleyChamomileMost other herbs

Use & storage

Mint Use & storage

Harvest

Continuous harvesting of leaves and shoots promotes growth. The aroma is most intense before flowering.

Storage

Herbs

Storage life

Fresh: 3-7 days in the refrigerator; Dried: up to 1 year; Frozen: 6-12 months.

Flavor

Refreshing, cooling, slightly pungent, sweet or lemony depending on the variety.

Harvest

Continuous harvesting of leaves and shoots promotes growth. The aroma is most intense before flowering.

Processing

Drying (air, dehydrator)Freezing (whole leaves, chopped in ice cube trays with water/oil)Making mint oilInfusing mint vinegarMaking mint syrup

After harvest

Gently wash harvested leaves and shoots and pat dry. Process or store quickly to minimize loss of aroma.

Notes

Mint should be used sparingly, as its intense aroma can overpower other flavors. Add to warm dishes at the end of cooking to preserve its aroma.

Edibility & safety

Mint Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Leaves, Young shoots
Caution parts:Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) is toxic in large quantities and should not be consumed., Mint essential oil should only be used under expert guidance.
Raw consumption:Yes, mint is commonly used raw in salads, drinks, and desserts.

Safety notes

Most common culinary mints (e.g., peppermint, spearmint) are safe in normal quantities. Pennyroyal mint contains pulegone, which can be hepatotoxic and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Animal safety

For animals, the specific plant part matters here: some parts may be suitable, while others should be avoided. At least one critical rating is listed for 9 animal types.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog icon for animal safety ratingDog

Leaves (in small amounts, from common culinary mints)

Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) (all parts), large quantities of other mint varieties, concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Concentrated essential oils, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Most common culinary mints are safe for dogs in small amounts. Large quantities or ingestion of Pennyroyal mint can cause gastrointestinal upset. Essential oils are concentrated and should not be administered directly.

Open animal page
Cat icon for animal safety ratingCat

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Essential oil, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Mint contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats when ingested in larger amounts. Common culinary mints like peppermint or spearmint are usually harmless in very small quantities, but due to toxin potential and lack of species-specific safety studies, feeding is not recommended. Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) is particularly hazardous due to pulegone.

Open animal page
Rabbit icon for animal safety ratingRabbit

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal upset

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page
Guinea pig icon for animal safety ratingGuinea pig

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal upset

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Mint is generally safe for guinea pigs in normal amounts, but large quantities may cause gastrointestinal upset. Pennyroyal mint is toxic and should be avoided. Essential oil should not be used.

Open animal page
Hamster icon for animal safety ratingHamster

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page
Budgie icon for animal safety ratingBudgie

Leaves (in small amounts, from common culinary mints), Young shoots (in small amounts, from common culinary mints)

Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) (all parts), large quantities of other mint varieties, concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Essential oil, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Vomiting

observe

Mint is likely safe for budgies in small amounts, but essential oils can cause gastrointestinal upset if overfed. Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) is toxic and should be avoided. Use only common culinary mint such as peppermint or spearmint.

Open animal page

Farm animals

Horse icon for animal safety ratingHorse

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Mint contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal irritation in horses when ingested in large amounts. Common culinary mints like peppermint or spearmint are usually harmless in very small quantities, but due to the risk of confusion with toxic varieties like pennyroyal and the concentration of oils, it is generally advised against. Pennyroyal mint is particularly hazardous due to pulegone.

Open animal page
Chicken icon for animal safety ratingChicken

Leaves (in small amounts, from common culinary mints), Young shoots (in small amounts, from common culinary mints)

Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) (all parts), large quantities of other mint varieties, concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Essential oil, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Vomiting

observe

Mint is safe for chickens in normal amounts, but large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset. Mint essential oil should be avoided. Leaves and young shoots are the safe parts. Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) is toxic and should not be fed.

Open animal page
Duck icon for animal safety ratingDuck

Leaves (in small amounts, from common culinary mints), Young shoots (in small amounts, from common culinary mints)

Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) (all parts), large quantities of other mint varieties, concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Essential oil, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Vomiting

observe

No direct species-specific source was found for ducks. This is a cautious inference from the chickens profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Goose icon for animal safety ratingGoose

Leaves (in small amounts, from common culinary mints), Young shoots (in small amounts, from common culinary mints)

Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) (all parts), large quantities of other mint varieties, concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large amounts, Essential oil, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium)

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Vomiting

observe

No direct species-specific source was found for geese. This is a cautious inference from the chickens profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Sheep icon for animal safety ratingSheep

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Liver damage (with pulegone exposure)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No direct species-specific source was found for sheep. This is a cautious inference from the goats profile and the known plant-part risks.

Open animal page
Goat icon for animal safety ratingGoat

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Liver damage (with pulegone exposure)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page
Cattle icon for animal safety ratingCattle

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Liver damage (with pulegone exposure)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page
Pig icon for animal safety ratingPig

No suitable parts listed

All parts, especially Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), concentrated essential oils

Risk factors

Large quantities, Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium), Mint essential oil

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Lethargy, Liver damage (with pulegone exposure)

contact a vet if symptoms appear

No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Open animal page

These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

4 / 5

Highest status

toxic

Urgency

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Saving seed

Mint Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Notes

Mint is often a hybrid, and seeds from such plants are rarely true-to-type. For true-to-type propagation, cuttings or division are preferred.

Practical tips

Mint Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Planting mint directly into an open bed without a root barrier, leading to uncontrolled spread.Allowing waterlogging, which promotes root rot, even though mint likes moist soil.Not harvesting or pruning regularly, causing the plant to become woody and lose its aroma.

Success pattern

Cultivation in large pots or raised beds with good drainage to control spread.Regular pruning and harvesting promotes bushy growth and a continuous supply of aromatic leaves.A partial shade location in hot regions protects the leaves from sunburn and preserves the aroma.

High-impact tips

Plant mint in a large, impermeable pot, which you then place in the bed or on the balcony. This is the easiest method for spread control.Harvest mint regularly and generously. This not only promotes new growth but also keeps the aroma intense and prevents flowering.

Grower observations

Mint is extremely adaptable and grows almost anywhere, as long as it gets enough moisture. Its spread is the biggest challenge for many gardeners.Aroma varies greatly between varieties; peppermint is sharper, while apple mint is milder.

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Mint (Mentha): whole plant for plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest May - October
Mint (Mentha): whole plant for plant portrait - Herbs, Mint family, Harvest May - October

Health

Pests, Diseases

Plant health

Nitrogen deficiencyIron deficiencyUncontrolled spreading

Diagnosis help

Mint Diagnosis help

Pest groups

AphidsMint flea beetlesSpider mitesSlugs and Snails

Disease groups

Mint RustPowdery MildewRoot Rot

Prevention

Site selection: Mint prefers moist but well-drained soil and sun to partial shade. An optimal location reduces stress and susceptibility.Root barrier: Absolutely use a root barrier or grow in pots to prevent invasive spread.Good air circulation: Adequate plant spacing and regular pruning prevent fungal diseases.Balanced watering: Keep consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.Regular pruning: Promotes bushy growth, prevents woodiness, and reduces the risk of diseases and loss of aroma.Plant hygiene: Immediately remove and destroy (do not compost, especially with rust) infected plant parts.

Diagnosis

Pay attention to the exact location of symptoms (young vs. old leaves, upper vs. underside) and growing conditions (moisture, temperature, light) to narrow down the cause.

Cultural prevention

Use root barriers or container cultivation to control spread.Ensure adequate plant spacing for good air circulation.Regular pruning promotes bushy growth and prevents woodiness.Immediately remove infected plant parts to minimize the spread of diseases and pests.

Monitoring

Regular inspection of leaves (upper and lower sides) for pests and disease symptoms.Pay special attention during humid weather (rust, mildew) and dry heat (spider mites).

First response

For minor infestations, rinse pests off with a strong jet of water.Use neem oil or soapy water for aphids and spider mites.Immediately remove infected leaves in case of fungal diseases and dispose of them in household waste.

Diagnostic rules

Orange-brown pustules on undersides of leaves, yellow spots on upper sides

Possible causes: Minzrost

  • Check plants for good air circulation
  • Remove infected leaves

White, powdery coating on leaves and stems

Possible causes: Powdery mildew

  • Check plant spacing
  • Improve air circulation

Wilting leaves despite moist soil, foul smell

Possible causes: Root rot

  • Check soil for waterlogging
  • Improve drainage

Sticky leaves, small insects on shoot tips

Possible causes: Aphids

  • Rinse plants with water
  • Encourage beneficial insects

FAQ

Why does my mint spread so much?

Mint forms strong underground runners (rhizomes) with which it quickly spreads in the garden. To prevent this, it should be grown in pots or with a deep root barrier in the bed.

How do I harvest mint correctly to get the best aroma?

Harvest mint preferably in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun gets too strong. Snip stems above a leaf node to encourage bushy growth. The aroma is most intense before flowering.

Is mint winter-hardy?

Most mint varieties grown in Central Europe are winter-hardy and can survive winter outdoors. Light winter protection with leaves or brushwood can be beneficial in harsh climates or for young plants.

Can I grow mint in a pot?

Yes, growing mint in pots is highly recommended to control its aggressive spread. Ensure a sufficiently large pot (at least 5-10 liters volume) with good drainage and regular watering.

What to do against mint rust?

Mint rust is a common fungal disease. Immediately remove infected plant parts and dispose of them in household waste (do not compost). Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. A radical cutback in spring can help.

Is Mint safe for Dog?

Mint is classified as selected parts only for Dog. Risk: 3 / 5. Urgency: observe. Most common culinary mints are safe for dogs in small amounts. Large quantities or ingestion of Pennyroyal mint can cause gastrointestinal upset. Essential oils are concentrated and should not be administered directly.

Is Mint safe for Cat?

Mint is classified as toxic for Cat. Risk: 4 / 5. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Mint contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats when ingested in larger amounts. Common culinary mints like peppermint or spearmint are usually harmless in very small quantities, but due to toxin potential and lack of species-specific safety studies, feeding is not recommended. Pennyroyal mint (Mentha pulegium) is particularly hazardous due to pulegone.

Is Mint safe for Rabbit?

Mint is classified as do not feed for Rabbit. Risk: 3 / 5. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. No reliable species-specific assessment is available. Due to essential oils and known toxicity of Pennyroyal mint, feeding is not recommended.

Is Mint safe for Horse?

Mint is classified as toxic for Horse. Risk: 4 / 5. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Mint contains essential oils that can cause gastrointestinal irritation in horses when ingested in large amounts. Common culinary mints like peppermint or spearmint are usually harmless in very small quantities, but due to the risk of confusion with toxic varieties like pennyroyal and the concentration of oils, it is generally advised against. Pennyroyal mint is particularly hazardous due to pulegone.

Guides

Related guides

Garden guides

Sources

Public sources

  1. Wikidata entity

    Wikidata · 2026-05-14

  2. GBIF species match

    GBIF · 2026-05-14

  3. Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Minzen

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-14

  4. English Wikipedia: Mentha

    Wikipedia · 2026-05-14

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