Wild Mint

When looking to attract pollinators with a fragrant, fast-growing, native plant, look no further than Wild Mint (Mentha arvensis). Growing 6 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 20 inches wide, this bright green, upright perennial spreads quickly, filling your garden with a scent that native bees cannot resist. In the summer, Wild Mint produces lavender-to-white flowers that are clustered closely against its stems. This edible perennial has many uses, from herbal teas and cooking to medicinal uses, reportedly aiding in digestion and acting as a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent. 

Because of its ability to spread vigorously, keep Wild Mint in a container or herb garden, or grow it as a natural weed suppressant in a wildflower or pollinator garden. Wild Mint naturally repels mosquitoes and garden pests, making it an excellent container plant around vegetable gardens and along patios. Wild Mint is also deer resistant and low maintenance. The only thing to worry about with Wild Mint is that it might actually grow too well, hence the recommendation for use in more contained spaces.

Wild Mint Care

Wild Mint grows best in full to part sun and in slightly acidic and well-draining soil. Growing best with regular water, Wild Mint is less drought tolerant than herbs like rosemary and thyme and should be planted with other water-needy plants. To plant, dig a hole that is at least twice the width and of equal depth as the root ball. If your soil is heavy in clay or sand, it is best to amend it with compost so that the soil can retain moisture but drain easily. Wild Mint will benefit from application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. 

Because Wild Mint is quite vigorous, you can trim and prune it aggressively if needed. When the plant has finished flowering in the summer, cut back the foliage to a few inches tall, allowing it to produce new growth and fill out again. To harvest mint, pinch the top of the branches just above the second set of leaves. Consider planting Wild Mint in a container to keep its spread under control. If kept in a container, protect the roots in the winter by bringing it into an unheated garage. 

Wild Mint Spacing

Allow Wild Mint plenty of room to grow and spread. To create a mass planting to outcompete invasive species or weeds, plant Wild Mint about 1 foot apart. Regularly remove runners to prevent it from invading areas where it is not wanted.

Wild Mint Information