How to Get Rid of Mint

Beginning gardeners are often thrilled with how easily mint grows. However, it can grow a little too well, spreading by runners and seemingly taking over an area. It has been known to travel beneath cement walkways and pop up in nearby planter beds. From the familiar spearmint to the delightful peppermint and pineapple mint, all belong to the genus Mentha. Some varieties are more invasive than others: spearmint is often the culprit that invades garden spaces you’d rather it not occupy.

Trowel
Shovel
White vinegar
Salt
Dish soap
Bucket

Instructions

- 1
  Dig mint out every time you see it growing where you don’t want it. Use a trowel for small clumps and a shovel for larger areas. Be sure to get all of the roots.
- 2
  Pull mint out by hand. Grab the base of the plant and pull gently to ensure getting the entire strand that spreads just below the soil surface.
- 3
  Stop watering the area where your unwanted mint is growing. Also, cover the area with a layer of clear plastic: this technique is called solarization. It will “cook” the soil, preventing most plants from growing.
- 4
  Combine 2 cups salt, 1 tsp. dish soap and 1 gallon of white vinegar in a bucket. Pour this solution over an area that is no more than 3-by-3 feet where your unwanted mint is growing. Repeat this application every other day until the mint dies.

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