How long does a mint plant typically survive?

Mint is known for providing years' worth of productive goodness with proper care and upkeep. In my backyard, I've grown peppermint plants for four to five years with seasonal care. The mint's longevity will depend on the variety of mint plant, growing conditions, and care practices. Knowing what to expect will help you extract the maximum value from your mint plant(s).

Identify age indicators before decline. Fewer leaves are a sign that it is time for a division. Woody stems indicate future need for pruning. Low yellow leaves indicate depleted soils. All these issues must be addressed head-on to increase the plant's longevity. I have calendar reminders for spring renewal.

Enhance productive benefits with strategic harvesting. Recognize that no more than one-third of the foliage should be removed in a harvest. Provide rest periods between cuttings. This balance avoids over-harvesting too early. Plants treated this way outlast over-harvested plants for years.

You can successfully overwinter mint in colder climates. Apply 6 inches of straw mulch to it after the ground has frozen. For mint in containers, bring the containers inside to an unheated garage or basement. For the entire dormancy period, water every month. It is helpful to protect the plants from the freeze-thaw cycles of winter, which can cause the roots to heave.

Replicate before decline. At 2 years, take cuttings from the healthiest stems and root these cuttings while the mother plant is still growing, ensuring a reliable supply with no gaps. I have a succession system that supplies mint every month for 10 years running.

Read the full article: How to Grow Mint: A Complete Beginner Guide