Harvesting mint correctly: We show how and when to cut mint correctly and explain what pruning has to do with flowering.

We have a few tips for you on the subject of chopping mint

Mint (Mentha) belongs in every herb garden: The aromatic herb can be used in many ways in the kitchen, it smells and tastes refreshing. Its flowers also attract bees and other important pollinators to the garden. The more than 20 different species of mint have two things in common: They belong to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and are fast-growing. Anyone who already has one in the garden knows that the vigorous plant cannot be kept in check with the harvest alone. That is why it is often necessary to cut back mint. In this article, you will find out how you can harvest the mint without damaging it.

Especially in a bed, a mint cut is important to keep them under control

Why cut mint?

First cut mint to harvest the leaves or stems of the plant. Another reason to prune mint is for vigorous growth. If you want to prevent the mint from overgrowing all other plants in the bed or pot, it needs to be trimmed regularly. It is important that you not only cut the upright but also the horizontal sprouts of the mint that form runners. Preserving the wonderful mint aroma can also be a reason for cutting. Because when the plant starts to flower, the aromatic scent and taste of all parts of the plant noticeably decrease. Consequently, it makes sense that you prune mint to control flowering.
Pruning mint is also necessary when infested with mint rust (Puccinia menthae). . If you completely cut back the plant when it is infested, you may get rid of the fungus. It is important to dispose of the clippings in the household waste and not on the compost and to disinfect the cutting tool before working on another plant. Last but not least, a second flowering of the mint can be made possible by a targeted cut. This prevents the seeds from sowing and bees and other insects can still find food in the autumn.In addition, the flowers of the mint will decorate your garden again.

Tip: In general, mint tolerates pruning very well and can be cut back at any time.

Summary: Why cut mint?

  • For Harvest
  • Control and limit growth
  • Preserve Aroma
  • Contain Mint Rust
  • Enable second flowering and prevent self-seeding
Mint
The mint flower is also edible, although it is not as aromatic

Pruning back for a second bloom

Mint can flower in the garden or pot from June to September, with 2 flowering periods. The first flowering is from the beginning of June to the end of July. If you cut back your mint early, the plant can grow back, i.e. bloom a second time. The later flowering period of the mint is from the end of August to the end of September.

Overview of the flowering time of mint:

  • Flowering period from June - September
  • First flowering: beginning of June - end of July
  • Second flowering: end of August - end of September

Tip: Even if the above-ground parts of the plant wither before winter, you can leave them over the winter as additional protection and only cut back the dried stems of the mint in spring.

The aerial part of the mint dies after the first frost at the latest

The right time to harvest mint

So when should you harvest your mint? You can harvest your mint all year round, with the aroma being most intense before flowering. In autumn, before the above-ground parts of the plant die off, it can be worth harvesting a little more and drying or freezing the mint to preserve it.

Mint Harvesting Procedure

To harvest and cut mint, it is best to use a clean, sharp knife or scissors. You should always cut whole stalks and not just harvest individual mint leaves. Plucking the leaves can lead to damage and stress, but if you cut them, the mint will sprout more quickly.

Tip: With mint, it is best to always harvest the upper 10 to 20 cm, as the leaves are youngest here and taste more intense. Always cut the mint just above a pair of leaves.

It is important to cut the mint and not to pick it, as it will sprout better this way

If you cut back the mint after flowering, the plant will sprout again. WhenIf you take good care of the mint and provide it with sufficient water and nutrients, it can again grow to about 30 cm in height and be harvested continuously until autumn.

Harvesting mint correctly: step-by-step-Instructions

  1. Use a sharp knife or good scissors.
  2. Just cut instead of plucking.
  3. The top 10 to 20 cm taste the most intense.
  4. Prune mint after flowering for another harvest.

Don't you have mint at home yet? We have summarized the correct planting of mint in the garden and in the pot in a special article for you.

Category:

Herbs