How to Grow Mint Indoors Successfully (Year-Round Guide)

Mint is one of the easiest and most rewarding herbs to grow indoors. With its fast growth, fresh aroma, and multiple culinary uses, it’s perfect for small apartments or kitchen windowsills. But if left unchecked, mint can become leggy or lose flavor.

This step-by-step guide shows you how to grow mint indoors successfully and keep it healthy all year long.

Why Grow Mint Indoors?

• Easy access for cooking and tea

• Controls its aggressive spreading habit

• Great air freshener for small spaces

• Thrives in pots with basic care

Whether it’s spearmint, peppermint, or chocolate mint—indoor growing keeps it manageable and productive.

Choosing the Right Container

• Use a pot at least 8–10 inches wide

• Ensure it has good drainage holes

• Terracotta or ceramic pots help prevent overwatering

Mint spreads through underground stems, so give it horizontal room to grow, not just depth.

Best Soil and Light Conditions

• Soil:

  • Use a light, well-draining potting mix

  • Add perlite or coconut coir to improve aeration

• Light:

  • Prefers bright, indirect light

  • A sunny windowsill facing east or south is ideal

  • If light is limited, use a grow light 12–14 hours per day

Watering and Humidity

• Keep the soil consistently moist, but never soggy

• Water when the top inch feels dry

• Mist occasionally or place the pot on a humidity tray in dry homes

Avoid letting the roots sit in water to prevent rot.

Fertilizing Mint Indoors

• Feed with a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring–fall)

• Avoid overfeeding—it can weaken the flavor and make stems leggy

Pruning for Bushier Growth

• Pinch back tips regularly to promote branching

• Don’t let the plant flower—remove flower buds as they appear

• Trim back up to ⅓ of the plant if it starts to get leggy

Common Issues Indoors

• Leggy stems: Not enough light

• Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage

• Pests: Spider mites or aphids—treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap

Keep air circulation strong and avoid overcrowding nearby plants.