When to Plant Mint in Melbourne — Cool Temperate 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: 21.9°C (optimal range: 21–24°C) ✓ Ready to plant
How to Grow Mint in Cool Temperate Australia
When to Plant
Plant Sep-Dec. Dies back 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
Cool Temperate Growing Tips for Mint
Recommended Varieties
- Spearmint
- Peppermint
- Apple mint
Key Challenges
- Winter dormancy
Pro Tips
- Container growing recommended
- Returns reliably each spring
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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