How to Plant Mint From Seeds

Overview

Mint is a perennial herb that includes peppermint, spearmint, apple mint and pineapple mint. It can grow up to 2 feet tall. The scent from mint is released when the leaves are brushed or bruised. Mint is primarily used to flavor and garnish food and is a rapidly growing herb that can withstand temperatures to minus 20 degrees F. Mint likes rich, moist soil.

Step 1

Dig up your planting area located in full sunlight with a shovel and loosen the soil to the depth of 6 inches. Break up any soil clumps and remove any large rocks. Mint also can tolerate areas of partial shade.

Step 2

Spread organic materials like steer manure or compost to the depth of 2 inches over the area. Work the compost throughout the soil to a depth of 6 inches. Do not dump the compost in a hole and bury it. It should be mixed into the soil so there is no distinction between compost and soil.

Step 3

Level out the soil with a rake and do not compact the soil. The fine mint seeds need loose soil to thrive.

Step 4

Sprinkle the seeds evenly across the top of the soil, covering over the seeds with 1/4-inch of peat moss. This will keep the top of the soil lightweight so the germinating seeds can push the soil aside.

Step 5

Use a spray bottle and mist the planting area thoroughly with water. Using a hose will move the seeds around too much. Do not pool the water as the seeds will float away.

Step 6

Thin the seedlings once they emerge and are 2 inches tall. Pull up the seedlings by hand if they are too close together. Mint seedlings can be spaced 1/2-inch from each other.