Mint Companion Plants: Enhancing Growth and Flavor

Mint is one of the most versatile herbs available, and it’s no wonder why gardeners love to grow it. Whether you’re using it for cooking, making tea or just enjoying its refreshing scent, mint is a must-have in any herb garden. But did you know that certain plants can be grown alongside mint to enhance its growth and flavor?

Companion planting is a technique where specific plants are grown together to benefit each other in some way. In the case of mint, companion planting can help improve soil quality, control pests, and even enhance its flavor. In this post, we'll explore some of the best plants to grow alongside mint and how they can benefit both the plant and the gardener.

The Benefits of Companion Planting with Mint

There are several benefits to companion planting with mint, such as:

- Improved soil health: Mint has a shallow root system, which means it doesn't do well in compacted soil. By growing it alongside plants with deep roots, such as beans or peas, you can help improve the soil structure and nutrient content.

- Pest control: Mint is known for its strong scent, which can help repel certain pests. Growing it alongside plants like onions or garlic can further deter pests, as these plants also have natural insect-repelling properties.

- Enhanced flavor: Certain plants can enhance the flavor of mint by growing alongside it. For example, lemon balm has a similar flavor profile to mint and can help enhance its taste. Similarly, growing mint alongside chamomile can help bring out its floral notes.

The Best Companion Plants for Mint

Now that we've covered the benefits of companion planting with mint, let's take a look at some of the best plants to grow alongside it:

1. Beans and Peas

As mentioned earlier, beans and peas have deep roots that can help improve soil health by breaking up compacted soil. They're also nitrogen-fixing plants, which means they can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that's usable by other plants. This can help boost the nutrient content of the soil, which is especially beneficial for shallow-rooted plants like mint.

2. Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are both known for their natural insect-repelling properties. By growing them alongside mint, you can help deter pests like aphids and spider mites. Additionally, onions and garlic add flavor to many dishes and can complement the taste of mint in recipes.

3. Chamomile

Chamomile has a delicate, floral flavor that can complement the refreshing taste of mint. It's also a great plant for attracting pollinators, which can help increase the yield of your herb garden.

4. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm has a flavor profile that's similar to mint, but with citrusy undertones. By growing it alongside mint, you can help enhance its flavor and create a more complex taste profile. Lemon balm is also a great plant for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.

5. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are edible flowers that have a slightly peppery flavor. They're also a great plant for attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations in your garden.

6. Dill

Dill is a natural insect repellent that can help keep pests away from your mint plants. It's also a great plant for adding flavor to salads, dips, and other dishes.

How to Companion Plant with Mint

Now that you know which plants are best to grow alongside mint, let's talk about how to actually companion plant them:

- by choosing a sunny location for your herb garden. Most herbs prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

- Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter to improve its texture and nutrient content.

- Plant your mint seedlings first, spacing them out about 12 inches apart. This will give them enough room to grow without competing for resources.

- Next, plant your companion plants around the mint, making sure to leave enough space between them so they don't overcrowd each other.

- Water your plants regularly and fertilize them as needed. Mint doesn't need a lot of fertilizer, but it does benefit from occasional applications of compost tea or fish emuon.

- Keep an eye out for pests and disease. If you notice any issues, take action immediately to prevent further damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grow mint indoors?

Yes, mint can be grown indoors as long as it has access to plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.

2. What's the best way to harvest mint?

The best time to harvest mint is in the morning when the oils are most concentrated. Use a sharp pair of scissors to snip off the leaves just above a node.

3. How often should I water my mint plants?

Mint prefers moist soil, so it's important to water it regularly. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

4. Can I use companion planting with other herbs?

Yes, companion planting can be used with many different types of plants, including other herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary.

5. Is it safe to eat mint leaves?

Yes, mint leaves are safe to eat and are commonly used in cooking and tea-making.



Companion planting with mint is a great way to enhance its growth and flavor while also improving the health of your garden. By choosing the right plants to grow alongside mint, you can create a thriving herb garden that's both beautiful and functional. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just ing out, give companion planting with mint a try and see the difference it can make in your garden.