Here’s how to grow mint in containers.
Starting Your Mint Container Garden
Mint Container Garden Care
Light
Place the pot where it will get around six hours of sunlight on most days. If you live in a hot climate, aim to give the container a little shade from the strong afternoon sun. Rotate the container as needed, so the plant grows evenly and does not stretch in one direction toward the sunlight.
Water
Water the container whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Pruning
Remove flower stalks if they appear, as they will cause the taste of the mint to degrade. Regularly pinch back the stems to encourage bushier growth. If the plant becomes very leggy or scraggly, it can be cut back to an inch above the soil line to regenerate with fuller growth. Pinch back the stem tips as they regrow. Watch out for the plant spilling over the edge of its pot, as it’s possible those mint stems will take root and spread if they come in contact with your lawn or garden soil. Cut them back to prevent unwanted spread.
Overwintering
If you live in a cooler climate than your mint variety’s hardiness zones, bring the container indoors for the winter prior to the temperatures dipping in the fall. Place it by a bright window and away from any drafts or hot air blowing from heaters. Cut back slightly on watering, but don’t allow the plant to wilt. Another option for overwintering is to put the container in an unheated garage or shed. The plant will go dormant, but it will likely regrow in the spring once you bring it back outside after the temperatures warm.
