Why should mint be harvested in the morning?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Morning hours when harvesting mint allow for the highest concentration of essential oils, where the best flavor and aromas will be retained. Cooler temps reduce the volatility of compounds lost in the heat of the day. The timing also reflects the plant's natural cycle for oil production. You will have an incredibly stronger aroma than when harvesting in the afternoon.
Oil Preservation
- Essential oils reach highest concentration at dawn
- Cool temperatures reduce evaporation of volatile compounds
- Results in 25-30% more flavor compounds captured
Plant Health
- Minimizes stress during cooler temperatures
- Reduces moisture loss from cut stems
- Allows daytime recovery before next harvest
Culinary Quality
- Peppermint shows strongest flavor difference morning vs afternoon
- Spearmint retains more complex flavor notes
- Fruit mints like pineapple mint develop brighter tones
Temperature management is important during the harvest. Temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) are optimal for keeping delicate compounds. Ensure that you do not harvest after a heavy rain or irrigation event, when oils will be diluted in the foliage. Do not harvest foliage that ~is still wet with dew~; dew should evaporate to prevent moisture spoilage.
Use sharp sterile scissors for precise cuts that heal rapidly. Always cut stems just above leaf nodes at 45-degree angles. Collect sprigs in breathable baskets, whenever possible, avoiding plastic bags. I put paper towels in my basket to collect excess moisture.
To best preserve mint, process it immediately after harvesting. If you are not using it right away, keep unwashed sprigs in airtight containers in the fridge. After 24 hours, you should freeze the leaves (in ice cubes) or dry them. If mint is left at room temperature, flavor degradation will start to occur in a few hours.
Seasonal changes influence the timing of harvesting windows. In spring, mornings have the highest oil concentration before flowering. The summer heat requires harvesting to be done earlier in the day. Autumn mints develop stronger flavor profiles, but like the spring, morning harvesting seems to be best.
Read the full article: How to Grow Mint in Pots: A Complete Guide
