The Spruce / Candace Madonna
Mint plants(Menthaspp.)
are known for growing quickly and abundantly.
When planted directly in the ground, mint can spread easily via undergroundrhizomes.
The Spruce / Candace Madonna
Once it’s planted, mint can be very difficult to get rid of entirely.
Removing too much can significantly weaken the plant and impact its future growth.
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Once a mintplant starts to bolt, the plant’s energy starts going towards producing blooms and seeds.
If you just pluck away one mint leaf at a time, this will weaken the plant.
By cutting above a node, you will encourage new shoots to grow faster and fuller.
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How to Prune Mint for Flowering
Generally, mint plants are grown for their aromatic leaves.
To get mint plants to flower, you want to provide the plant with their desired conditions.
In addition to sunlight, mint prefers temperatures between 65F70F and soil that is kept moist.
Mostmint varietieshave two blooming periods: early summer and late summer.
The first flowering period typically takes place from June to July.
If you cut back those flowers, the plant will undergo a second flowering period from August to September.
Mint is a perennial, meaning it will grow back every year.
To keep your mint plant full and bushy, it’s important to regularly prune it.
Pruning your mint plant regularly encourages a fully, bushy growth habit.
To limit stress on the plant, be sure to never prune more than a third of the plant.
There are many uses for mint after you harvest it.
you’ve got the option to also dry mint leaves and stems to use at a later time.
