How to Prune Mint
Keep mint productive and under control with regular pruning
Mint is Aggressive!
Mint spreads via underground runners and can quickly take over a garden. Always grow mint in containers, and prune regularly to keep it contained. The good news: you can't prune it too much!
How to Prune Mint
Harvest from the Top
Cut stems just above a leaf node (where two leaves meet). New branches will grow from this point, creating a bushier plant.
Cut Back Regularly
Every 2-3 weeks, cut the entire plant back by 1/3 to 1/2. This prevents flowering and keeps leaves tender and flavorful.
Remove Flower Buds
Pinch off flower buds as soon as you see them. Once mint flowers, leaf production slows and flavor diminishes.
Hard Prune in Spring
In early spring, cut the entire plant back to 1-2 inches above soil level. This removes woody growth and encourages a flush of fresh leaves.
Rejuvenating Old Mint
Is your mint woody, leggy, or just looking tired? Here's how to bring it back:
- In early spring, cut the entire plant to 1-2 inches above the soil
- Remove any dead, brown, or diseased stems completely
- Water well and apply a light fertilizer
- New growth will emerge from the roots within 1-2 weeks
- Resume regular harvesting when growth is 4-6 inches tall
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I prune mint?
Prune mint every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, or whenever it looks leggy. Regular harvesting counts as pruning! The more you cut, the bushier and more productive it becomes.
Can I cut mint back to the ground?
Yes! Mint is extremely resilient. You can cut it back to just above soil level and it will regrow from the roots. This is a great way to rejuvenate an old, woody plant in spring.
How do I stop mint from spreading?
Grow mint in containers (it spreads aggressively in ground). Prune regularly to keep it contained. If in ground, install root barriers or grow in a sunken pot.
Why is my mint getting woody?
Mint becomes woody when not pruned regularly. Cutting back hard in spring encourages fresh, tender growth. If very woody, cut back to the ground and let it regenerate.