Whether you start from seeds or young plants, mint is relatively easy to grow. It can be cultivated in pots, both indoors and outdoors, or planted directly in the garden. Mint also grows fairly quickly. So, how long does a mint seed take to grow? Here is everything you need to know about mint and its germination time.
About mint
Mint belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This aromatic herb adds a refreshing flavour to dishes, desserts, salads and many other recipes. There are several varieties of mint that can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
Mint: an aromatic plant with abundant foliage
Mint is a bushy aromatic plant that grows fairly quickly and can spread over a relatively large area. A mint plant generally reaches between 20 and 60 cm in height. It has deciduous yet persistent foliage, while its flowers may be pink, white or purple depending on the plant.
Different varieties of mint
The best-known varieties are spearmint and peppermint. Spearmint has a milder aroma, while peppermint adds a more distinctive, peppery note to recipes. Other varieties include lemon mint, sharp mint and Moroccan mint.
How long do mint seeds take to grow?
Once sown, mint usually grows quite quickly. Germination time depends on the mint variety and the seeds you plant. So, how long does a mint seed take to grow?
Mint germination time
Mint germination takes around 10 days when using ready-to-grow seeds. Other mint seeds may take longer to sprout. To encourage healthy growth, it is important to provide the plant with the right growing conditions.
Mint seeds: how long until harvest?
It takes approximately 6 weeks for mint seeds to grow into plants with leaves ready to harvest. After this period, the mint can be picked and used. You can then harvest leaves as needed, allowing you to enjoy fresh mint whenever you want it.
How to sow mint seeds
Mint seeds can be sown in pots, under cover or directly in the ground. To encourage successful germination and healthy growth, it is important to provide suitable growing conditions and follow a few simple steps.
Sowing mint seeds: what you need to know
Mint does not require a particularly specific type of soil. However, it is best to sow the seeds in fresh, nutrient-rich potting soil. While the mint is growing, keep the soil slightly moist.
To encourage healthy development, grow mint in a sunny or partially shaded location. Choosing the right seeds is also important. Ready-to-grow mint seeds generally take less time to germinate.
Sowing mint seeds: the steps
Mint seeds can be sown directly in the ground or under cover. Mint also grows very well indoors throughout the year.
To sow mint seeds directly in the ground:
- Loosen the soil to a depth of around half a spade to create a finer texture;
- Mix potting soil into the garden soil;
- Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface;
- Firm the soil gently using a rake;
- Water the soil.
Note: mint is generally sown directly outdoors during spring.
To sow mint seeds under cover:
- Fill the pots with planting compost;
- Place a few seeds on the surface of the soil;
- Firm the soil gently;
- Water carefully.
Note: when sowing mint under cover, keep the seeds at around 18°C in a bright location, preferably from January onwards.
To grow mint in a pot:
- Choose a sufficiently large pot and make sure it has drainage holes;
- Add a layer of clay pebbles to the bottom of the pot to improve drainage;
- Fill the pot with potting soil;
- Sow the seeds on the surface;
- Gently firm the soil;
- Water carefully.
