When it comes to peppermint, there are two main harvest times when you cut the plants back completely. You can cut peppermint at any time for ongoing consumption. The herb can also be harvested during and after flowering.
When and how do I cut peppermint correctly?
Peppermint can be cut at any time, preferably before flowering and in the fall for main crops. Use sharp scissors to cut the plant back above the ground without damaging it. This stimulates growth and preserves the aroma.
Cut peppermint for immediate consumption
Basically, you can harvest peppermint at any time. Whenever you need a few leaves for a dessert or tea, cut off the required amount.
Peppermint is not poisonous after flowering and can also be harvested afterwards. However, the aroma is a bit bitter.
You can harvest both the leaves and the stems. That depends on how much herbs you need for the food or drinks.
How and when do you cut peppermint?
- Sharp scissors
- Substitute sharp knife
- First main harvest before flowering
- Second main harvest in autumn
Always cut peppermint above the ground
You can either harvest peppermint as individual leaves or cut the whole stem. The latter is recommended if you want to preserve the herb by drying it.
The best way to do this is to use scissors that can easily cut through the stems. Use the knife to injure the stems so that pathogens can penetrate.
Cut the herb back above the ground if possible. This will stimulate new growth at the same time.
Prune peppermint before flowering and in autumn
During the two main harvest seasons, cut the plant back completely.
Peppermint harvested before flowering has the strongest aroma. It is therefore particularly suitable for processing.
Preserving peppermint cut in autumn is only worth it if the summer has been very warm and dry. After cool summers, the plants have too little aroma.
Cut peppermint into shape
To keep the plants under control, you can cut them back regularly. Severe pruning does not harm the peppermint. Often it then sprouts even more strongly.
Tips & Tricks
Peppermint that you want to preserve should be cut on a dry morning if it rained the day before. The herbs are then well dry and you don't have to wash them because the dust and dirt have already been washed away by the rainwater.
