Growing spearmint (Mentha spicata) is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do in the garden—but it spreads aggressively, so a little control goes a long way.
Basic Growing Conditions
Sunlight
- Full sun to partial shade (best flavor with 4–6+ hours of sun)
Soil
- Rich, moist, well-draining soil
- Loves compost-amended beds
Water
- Keep soil consistently moist (not soggy)
- More forgiving than most herbs if you forget watering
Planting Spearmint
Best Time (Middle Tennessee)
- Early spring after last frost
- Or fall for established plants
How to Plant
- Space plants 12–18 inches apart
- Plant at the same depth as nursery pot
- Water well after planting
Important Tip
- Spearmint spreads by underground runners
Plant it in: - Containers
- Raised beds
- Or use root barriers
Growing in Containers (Highly Recommended)
- Use a 12″+ pot minimum
- Regular potting mix + compost
- Water more often than in-ground plants
- Keeps it from taking over your garden
Care & Maintenance
Pruning
- Harvest often to keep it bushy
- Cut stems just above a leaf node
Fertilizing
- Light feeder—compost once or twice per season is enough
Mulching
- Helps retain moisture and control spread
Harvesting
- Start harvesting when plants are 6–8 inches tall
- Best flavor before flowering
- You can cut up to ½ the plant at once
Propagation (Super Easy)
Spearmint is one of the easiest plants to multiply:
From Cuttings
Snip a 4–6 inch stem
Remove lower leaves
Place in water
Roots form in 5–10 days → plant in soil
By Division
- Dig up and split roots in spring or fall
Common Issues
- Aphids / spider mites → rinse with water or use insecticidal soap
- Powdery mildew → improve airflow, avoid overhead watering
Companion & Garden Uses
- Great near cabbage, tomatoes, and peppers (may deter pests)
- Attracts pollinators when flowering
- Useful in teas, salads, sauces, and herbal remedies
Overwintering (Tennessee)
- Dies back in winter but returns in spring
- Mulch lightly for protection
- Containers can be moved to a sheltered spot
Pro Tips
- If you want stronger flavor, grow in more sun and slightly drier soil
- Pinch off flowers to keep leaves tender
- Grow multiple pots so you always have fresh, young growth