It's important to consider mint companion plants when planning your garden layout. Learn which are the best and which plants you should avoid planting near your mint in order to get the most benefit from your crop!

Mint is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family of plants. It grows best in moist and well-drained soils and prefers partial shade but can grow in full sun. Mint has spear-shaped, green leaves with jagged edges and small white or purple flowers when allowed to bloom. It is an easy-to-care-for plant, and the mint's fast-growing habit makes it a great choice for ground cover or as a companion plant.

Mint prefers moist soil and doesn't like dry conditions, so it should be watered regularly. We had a small mint patch in the food forest last season and it was super happy to be in the moist soil - we will see if it comes back next year as we are on the cusp of the perennializing growing zones.

Its strong, fragrant aroma is unmistakable. Mint can be used to make tea, infuse oils, or add flavor to dishes. We love to use mint for homemade ice creams, herbal teas, and mojitos!

Caution: Mint Here, There, And Everywhere!

Mint can be incredibly invasive, so it's important to keep in mind that this plant has the potential to take over your garden! Mint spreads via thick, fleshy rhizomes that can quickly spread beyond the original plant's boundaries. It’s a good idea to trim back your mint often to prevent it from taking over.

I recommend growing mint in buried or above-ground pots or containers, especially if you're in zones 3 through 8, and making sure to contain the roots with barriers. That way, you can enjoy all of the benefits of mint without having to worry about it taking over.

Overall, mint is a wonderful plant to have in your garden. With its fragrant scent and culinary uses, this herb can be a great addition to any garden. Just make sure to keep an eye on it and contain the roots to prevent it from taking over.

What Is Companion Planting?

Companion planting is the intentional planting of two or more plants in close proximity to each other for mutual benefit. Companion plants can help improve soil quality, cycle nutrients, deter pests, and attract beneficial insects. Using companion plants in your garden can help to improve yields, and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

Not all companion plants need to be interplanted with mint to offer the same effectiveness. Many companion plants can be planted along the edge of the garden plot or placed in the garden in pots or containers without diminishing their plant superpowers.