Can Mint Grow in Shade?

How much sun mint needs

North Carolina State Extension lists spearmint for full sun, six or more hours of direct sun, and for partial shade, two to six hours. It notes that spearmint tolerates partial shade but does not do well in dry soil. Utah State University Extension says mint grows best in full sun to partial shade, and that full sun may scorch the leaves of variegated types such as pineapple mint.

What changes in the shade

• Growth is slower and the stems reach toward the light.
• Flavor can be milder, since sun helps the leaves build their oils.
• The soil stays moist longer, so water a little less often.

Keep the soil moist

Shade or sun, mint wants steady moisture. Utah State Extension suggests up to 1 to 2 inches of water a week, depending on heat, exposure and soil, and warns that overwatering leads to disease. Let extra water drain away.

Mint indoors

A windowsill counts as partial shade at best. University of Illinois Extension suggests six hours of direct sun, or a grow light 6 to 12 inches above the plant for 12 to 14 hours a day, in a pot at least 6 inches wide with a drainage hole.

Mint spreads fast by its roots. Grow it in its own pot, even in the shade, so it cannot take over the bed.

Sources

• Mentha spicata (North Carolina State University Extension)
• How to Grow Mint in Your Garden (Utah State University Extension)
• Herbs all winter: grow them indoors (University of Illinois Extension)