How should potted mint be prepared for winter?

Potted mint preparation for winter helps to ensure that it stays alive during the cold season. Unlike plants buried in the ground, potted plants are situated in temperatures where they will freeze. Seasonal care taken over the winter months protects the plants from frost. Dormant mint must be cared for differently from when it is actively growing. It is essential to start preparing for winter before the first frost arrives.

Add mulch at the bases of your containers to provide important insulation. You can use straw, shredded leaves, or bubble wrap to cover the outside of the pot and the topsoil surface. This provides a buffer of protection for your roots from freeze-thaw cycles. I gift wrap my mint pots before the temperatures drop.

Prune plants severely before winter dormancy. Removing two-thirds of the height removes tender growth that is susceptible to frost injury. Leave only woody stems above soil level. This maneuver sends energy to the roots, where it is stored in the spring.

Significantly reduce watering during the winter. Dormant plants require very little water. Watering a plant in cold soil too much can lead to rot. Check the soil for dryness once a month by inserting a finger to gauge soil moisture. You should only water if the soil is completely dry several inches below the surface.

Extreme cold requires additional protective measures; group pots together against the walls. Cover with burlap or frost cloth during polar vortices. Move tender varieties indoors temporarily. Monitor weather forecasts closely.

Spring transition begins as temperatures rise consistently above freezing. As new growth appears, steadily ramp up watering. Remove mulch slowly over a few weeks. Return to regular care when the plants begin to grow actively.

Read the full article: How to Grow Mint in Pots: A Complete Guide