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Step 1
Decide on a location. Because it is very invasive and prone to taking over a bed, most veteran gardeners plant spearmint in pots or containers. Locate the spearmint where it will get partial shade. A traditional place to plane spearmint is underneath a dripping yard faucet.
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Step 2
Use good soil. Spearmint likes rich, well-drained soil. A pH value of 6.5 to 7.0 is best for growing mint. Soil additives, such as compost or manure, are good for mint.
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Step 3
Decide between cuttings or seed. Many gardeners have trouble propagating spearmint from seeds. Mint is easy to grow from cuttings. Seedlings are usually available from a nursery or ask a fellow gardener for some. Plant these after all danger of frost has passed. Spearmint plants need room and will spread; space them 36 to 48 inches apart. If starting with seeds, sow indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost.
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Step 4
Water frequently. Spearmint thrives in moist soil but do not over water. Water at regular intervals for best results.
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Step 5
Harvest when the spearmint starts to bloom. Remove up to a third of the spearmint plant, branch and leaves. The remaining plant will re-grow for later harvest. Use the leaves immediately; spearmint does not dry well.
