How to Grow Mint Without It Taking Over Your Yard

Plant mint in containers or use underground barriers like buried pots or root guards to prevent its aggressive spreading through underground runners.

  1. Pick Your Containment Strategy. Decide between growing mint in above-ground containers or using underground barriers. Containers offer complete control but require more watering. Underground barriers allow ground planting while controlling spread. For barriers, you'll need either large plastic pots with drainage holes or commercial root guard fabric.
  2. Build Your Containment System. For containers, use pots at least 12 inches wide and deep with drainage holes. For underground barriers, dig a hole 18 inches deep and sink a bottomless plastic pot or install root guard fabric extending 15 inches deep around your planting area. Leave 2-3 inches of barrier above soil level to prevent runners from jumping over.
  3. Get Mint in the Ground. Fill containers or prepared areas with quality potting soil mixed with compost. Plant mint at the same depth it was growing previously. Space multiple plants 12 inches apart. Water thoroughly after planting. Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade for best growth.
  4. Harvest Often, Pinch Smart. Harvest mint frequently by pinching stems just above leaf pairs. This encourages bushy growth and prevents flowering, which can make leaves bitter. Cut back the entire plant by one-third every few weeks during growing season. Regular harvesting is your best defense against spreading.
  5. Stop Runners Before They Root. Check monthly for any runners attempting to escape containment. Trim any stems touching the ground outside your barrier, as these can root and establish new plants. Remove any flowers immediately to keep the plant focused on leaf production rather than seed development.
  6. Divide and Revitalize Yearly. Each spring, lift containerized mint and divide overcrowded clumps. Replant the healthiest sections in fresh soil. This prevents plants from becoming root-bound and maintains vigorous growth. For barrier-contained plants, dig up and divide every 2-3 years to prevent breakthrough.