How to Grow Mint Plant Indoors

Updated: 24 Jun, 2023

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The mint plant is renowned for its astonishing array of flavors, encompassing an impressive variety. With over 600 different species in the mint family, along with numerous hybrids, a few noteworthy ones include peppermint, spearmint, apple mint, and pineapple mint.

Given its versatility and extensive range of applications, mint has become a favored herb to cultivate throughout the year. Whether it’s a windowsill or an indoor space illuminated by fluorescent lights, you can easily learn the art of growing mint in such environments.

Growing mint indoors offers several advantages. First and foremost, it allows you to enjoy fresh mint leaves throughout the year, regardless of the season. Additionally, cultivating mint indoors provides convenience and accessibility, as it can be readily accessed for culinary purposes or herbal remedies whenever needed.

To successfully grow mint indoors, a few key considerations come into play. First, select a suitable container with adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. Optimal soil conditions involve using a well-draining and nutrient-rich potting mix. Furthermore, ensure the mint plant receives ample sunlight or fluorescent light for healthy growth.

Get to Know Your Mint Plant

Mint herb, a resilient perennial, showcases oval-shaped green leaves characterized by deeply veined textures and finely toothed edges. Some variations exhibit leaves adorned with hints of red or purple, or even display variegated patterns.

When cultivated outdoors, mint herb has a remarkable ability to propagate swiftly through underground runners, which can make it invasive in garden settings. However, confining mint to a container effectively controls its growth and prevents unwanted spread.

In late summer, you can anticipate the emergence of tall spikes of pink flowers at the tips of the stems. It is advisable to promptly pinch off these blossoms upon their appearance. Mint plants do not produce seeds, and when they allocate their energy towards flowering, the leaves’ flavor begins to diminish.

Mint Herb: A Hardy Perennial with Versatile Leaves

Controlled Growth: Growing Mint in Containers

Preventing Flowering: Preserving Flavorful Leaves

Optimizing Leaf Production: Harvesting and Maintenance

To maintain the potency and taste of mint leaves, it is crucial to remove the flowers. By doing so, the plant’s resources can be directed towards leaf production, ensuring a more robust and flavorful harvest. Regular pruning and harvesting of mint leaves promote bushier growth and a continuous supply of fresh leaves.

Mint Plant Care Indoors

Origin: Europe and Asia
Height: 1-2 ft (30-60 cm)

Light: Provide Adequate Brightness and Sunlight

Ensure your mint plant receives bright light, including some direct sunlight. To prevent the plant from leaning towards the light source, rotate it occasionally. In case you don’t have a sunny window, indoor grow lights can effectively nurture herbs. Keep the plants positioned 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) below the lights for optimal growth.

Water: Maintain Proper Moisture Levels

Choose a pot with drainage holes to facilitate proper water drainage. Thoroughly water the mint plant and empty any excess water from the drainage tray. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of the potting medium to dry before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as mint plants dislike soggy conditions that can lead to root rot. If you notice yellowing leaves, it may indicate overwatering.

Humidity: Optimal Moisture Levels

Maintain average room humidity, around 45% relative humidity or higher. Indoor air can become excessively dry during winter without our notice. It is advisable to use a humidity monitor to accurately gauge the humidity levels. If the humidity is low, you can place the pot on a humidity tray or use a cool-mist room humidifier. Avoid misting the herbs indoors, as it may result in wet leaves and the development of powdery mildew.

Temperature: Moderate Room Temperatures

Mint plants thrive in average room temperatures ranging from 65 to 75°F (18 to 24°C).

Soil: Well-Draining Potting Mix

Utilize a good-quality potting mix that drains effectively to provide suitable growing conditions for your mint plant.

Fertilizer: Monthly Organic Feedings

Feed your mint plant with an organic water-soluble fertilizer on a monthly basis to ensure it receives the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

Propagation: Stolon Propagation and Stem Cuttings

Mint herb does not produce seeds but propagates through stolons. In spring, you can take stem cuttings or divide older plants to propagate new mint specimens.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I grow mint indoors?

Yes, mint can be grown indoors. It adapts well to indoor conditions and can thrive in containers or pots.

Where should I place my mint plant indoors?

Mint plants require bright light, so place them in a location that receives direct sunlight for a few hours each day. If direct sunlight is not available, you can use fluorescent grow lights to provide adequate light.

What type of soil is best for growing mint indoors?

Mint plants prefer well-draining soil. Use a good-quality potting mix or create a blend of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and vermiculite for optimal drainage.

How often should I water my indoor mint plant?

Water your mint plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Mint prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Should I fertilize my indoor mint plant?

Mint plants benefit from monthly fertilization using an organic water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper application.

How do I prevent my mint plant from becoming invasive indoors?

Growing mint in a container is an effective way to control its spread. Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging and keep the plant’s growth in check.

Can I propagate mint plants indoors?

Yes, mint plants can be propagated indoors. You can take stem cuttings or divide older plants in spring to create new mint plants.

How do I harvest mint leaves?

Harvest mint leaves by snipping off the stems just above a set of leaves. This encourages bushier growth. Regular harvesting also helps maintain the plant’s flavor and prevents it from becoming leggy.

Conclusion

Growing mint plants indoors can be a rewarding and convenient experience. By following a few essential guidelines, you can successfully cultivate mint on your windowsill or under fluorescent lights.

Ensure your mint plant receives bright light, including some direct sunlight. If a sunny window is not available, indoor grow lights can be a suitable alternative. Rotate the plant occasionally to prevent it from growing towards the light source.

Proper watering is crucial for mint plants. Use a pot with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Water thoroughly and wait for the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of the potting medium to dry out before watering again. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.