When to Plant Mint in Canberra — Cold / Highland Guide
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Vigorous, versatile, and INVASIVE. Always grow in containers. Spearmint (M. spicata) is standard culinary. Peppermint (M. x piperita) for teas. Vietnamese mint (Persicaria odorata) is NOT a true mint but fills a similar niche in warm climates. All true mints spread aggressively by underground runners.
Current Growing Conditions
Soil temperature: 18.9°C (optimal range: 21–24°C) ✗ Outside optimal range
How to Grow Mint in Cold / Highland Australia
When to Plant
Plant Oct-Dec. Fully dormant in winter.
- Soil
- Rich, moist soil with plenty of organic matter.
- pH Range
- 6.0-7.0
- Sunlight
- Part shade to full sun. Morning sun, afternoon shade in hot zones.
- Spacing
- 30cm apart, 30cm between rows
- Watering
- Regular, generous watering. Daily in pots in summer.
Companion plants: Tomato, Cabbage
Avoid planting near: Parsley
Cold / Highland Growing Tips for Mint
Recommended Varieties
- Spearmint (most cold-hardy)
- Peppermint
Key Challenges
- Short season
Pro Tips
- Survives hard frosts from established crowns
- Protect containers from freezing solid
Harvesting Mint
When ready: Harvest once stems 10cm+ tall.
How to harvest: Cut stems to 5cm above soil. Entire plant can be cut to ground - regrows in 2-3 weeks.
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