Learning how to harvest mint is one of the simplest and most rewarding tasks in the garden. This guide will walk you through the best techniques to ensure a bountiful, healthy crop all season long.
Mint is a vigorous perennial herb that can almost grow itself. But harvesting it the right way makes a huge difference. It encourages bushier growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy or invasive. With just a few simple tips, you’ll be picking perfect mint leaves whenever you need them.
How to Harvest Mint
This main technique is the cornerstone of keeping your mint plant productive. It’s not just about picking leaves; it’s about shaping the plant’s future growth.
The Right Tools for the Job
You don’t need much. For a clean cut that doesn’t damage the plant, use a pair of sharp, clean scissors or garden snips. Your fingers can work for tender stems, but tools are better. Always make sure your tools are clean to avoid spreading any disease between plants.
Step-by-Step Harvesting Method
- Identify a stem that is at least 4-6 inches tall and looks healthy.
- Look for a pair of leaves growing opposite each other on the stem. This is called a leaf node.
- Using your scissors, cut the stem about 1 inch above that set of leaves.
- You can harvest individual stems this way, or take several at once to shape the plant.
Cutting above the leaf node is crucial. It signals the plant to send out two new branches from that point, resulting in a fuller, bushier mint plant instead of a tall, sparse one. If you just pluck the top leaves, the stem will stop growing.
When to Harvest Mint
Timing affects flavor and plant health. The best time of day to harvest is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the afternoon sun gets to hot. At this time, the essential oils in the leaves are at their peak, giving you the most robust flavor.
For the plant’s life cycle, you can begin harvesting once the plant is well-established and has several stems, usually when it’s about 6-8 inches tall. Regular harvesting throughout the growing season is encouraged. Avoid taking more than one-third of the plant at any single time to ensure it has enough leaves to keep growing strong.
Harvesting for Different Uses
Your intended use can guide how you harvest.
- For Fresh Use: Pick individual leaves or cut a few stems as needed right before you use them. This gives the freshest taste.
- For a Large Batch (Drying or Freezing): Use the main cutting method described above. Gather stems in small bunches and process them together. This is often done just before the plant flowers for maximum flavor.
Preventing Mint from Taking Over
Mint is famous for its aggressive spreading via underground runners. Harvesting is actually part of control. By frequently cutting back the tops, you direct the plant’s energy into producing leaves rather than spreading roots. For serious containment, always grow mint in a pot. You can even sink the pot into your garden bed to keep its roots restricted.
Signs of Overharvesting
Be mindful not to take to much. If your plant looks sparse, has very thin new growth, or is struggling to recover after cutting, you might be harvesting to aggressively. Give it a break, water it well, and let it put on some new growth before you harvest again.
How to Harvest Mint Flowers
Mint will eventually produce small white or purple flowers. While pretty, flowering changes the leaf flavor, making it less potent. It’s generally recommended to pinch off flower buds as soon as you seem them. This is called “deadheading,” and it keeps the plant producing tasty leaves.
If you want to let some flower for pollinators, just do so on a few stems. Harvest the rest of the plant normally. The flowers are also edible and make a lovely garnish.
Post-Harvest Handling and Storage
What you do after picking is just as important for enjoying your mint.
Washing and Drying Fresh Mint
Gently rinse your harvested stems under cool running water to remove any dirt or tiny insects. Shake off the excess water. The best way to dry the leaves is to lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner. Moisture will cause them to blacken quickly in storage, so make sure they are thoroughly dry.
Short-Term Fresh Storage
For mint you’ll use within a week, treat it like a bouquet. Place the stem ends in a small jar with an inch of water, loosely cover the leaves with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. Change the water every couple of days. This keeps the leaves crisp and vibrant.
Long-Term Preservation Methods
To enjoy your mint year-round, try these methods.
Freezing Mint
Freezing is excellent for retaining flavor and color. You can freeze whole leaves on a tray before bagging them, or chop the leaves and freeze them in ice cube trays covered with a little water or oil. This gives you pre-portioned mint ready for drinks or cooking.
Drying Mint
Drying is a classic method. Tie small bunches of mint stems together and hang them upside down in a warm, dry, dark place with good air circulation. Once the leaves are completely crisp and crumbly, strip them from the stems and store in an airtight container away from light. Dried mint is perfect for teas and seasoning.
Common Mint Harvesting Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced gardeners can make a few errors. Here’s what to watch out for.
- Cutting Too Low: Avoid cutting into the woody, leafless base of the plant. Always cut in the green, leafy section above a node.
- Harvesting Wet Leaves: Picking leaves when they are wet from rain or dew can promote mold during storage.
- Letting It Flower Unchecked: Allowing the entire plant to go to seed will signal it’s the end of the season, and leaf production will slow way down.
- Using Dull Tools: Crushing stems with dull scissors can damage the plant and invite disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often can I harvest my mint plant?
You can harvest lightly every week or two once the plant is established. The more you harvest properly, the bushier it gets, giving you more to pick!
Can you harvest mint after it flowers?
Yes, you can, but the leaves may have a slightly bitter taste compared to those harvested before flowering. It’s best to cut the plant back hard after flowering to encourage a fresh flush of growth.
What is the best way to pick mint leaves?
The best way is to use sharp scissors to cut the stem above a leaf node. This method is better for the plant than just pulling leaves off, which can cause damage.
How do you harvest mint so it keeps growing?
By always cutting above a leaf node and never taking more than a third of the plant, you ensure it has the resources to regrow quickly and robustly.
Does mint grow back after cutting?
Absolutely. In fact, it grows back thicker and fuller when cut correctly. Mint is very resilient and thrives on regular pruning, which is essentially what harvesting is.
With these simple and effective techniques, you can master the art of harvesting mint. Your plants will be healthier, more contained, and will provide you with an abundant supply of fresh herbs for countless uses in the kitchen and beyond. Remember, frequent harvesting is the secret to a beautiful mint patch.