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How to Harvest Mint

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published January 26, 2025

Mint is an aromatic herb used in both culinary and medicinal applications. Whether you're new to growing mint or an experienced gardener, proper harvesting is essential for healthy plants. Let’s explore the best ways to harvest mint successfully, ensuring your plants remain productive and vibrant.

Tools and Materials

When to Harvest Mint

  • Harvest mint just before the plant flowers for the most intense flavour. Look for buds forming but not yet blooming.
  • Ideally, the best time to harvest mint leaves is when the plant has multiple stems that are at least 6 to 8 inches long.
  • Mint can be harvested multiple times during the growing season, typically every 6-8 weeks.
  • Early morning is ideal for harvesting as the oils present in the mint that give the flavors are the most concentrated.
  • Use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut stems just above a set of leaves to encourage regrowth.

Steps on How to Harvest Mint

Knowing when to harvest mint is crucial to getting the most flavorful leaves. Let’s learn the steps on how to do it:

How to Store Fresh Mint

Here are several methods you can use to store mint leaves:

  • Wrap mint stems in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or airtight container in the fridge.
  • Place mint stems in a glass of water (like a bouquet) and cover loosely with a plastic bag; change the water every couple of days.
  • Rinse and dry mint leaves, chop or leave whole, then place in ice cube trays. Cover with water, stock, or olive oil and freeze.
  • Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for storage and keep for months.
  • Rinse and pat dry mint leaves, bundle stems with twine and hang upside down in a dark, dry, ventilated space.
  • Once dry and crumbly (1-2 weeks), remove leaves from stems and store in an airtight container.

How to Dry Mint Leaves

  • Tie mint stems into small bunches and hang them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated space.
  • Spread leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet and dry them in the oven at the lowest temperature for 2-3 hours.
  • Use a dehydrator at a low setting, ideally between 95°F to 115°F (35°C to 46°C), for even and quick drying of mint leaves.
  • Once dried, store mint leaves in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve flavor.

Knowing how to harvest mint correctly not only ensures a continual supply of this delightful herb but also boosts your plant’s health and longevity. By following these techniques and tips on how to harvest mint, you can ensure a continuous supply of high-quality mint for your culinary creations.

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