Can you root mint cuttings in water? Yes, easily. Mint cuttings in water root from 3–5 inch (8–13 cm) soft stem tips with the lower leaves removed and one or two nodes submerged. Set the jar in bright, indirect light at about 70°F (21°C) and change the water twice a week. Roots often appear within 1–2 weeks.
Key takeaway: Mint cuttings in water are one of the fastest herb projects. The Royal Horticultural Society says mint stems root readily in a jar of water; just keep leaves out of the water and the water fresh.
| Step | Target | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting length | 3–5 in (8–13 cm) with at least one node | University of Maryland |
| Temperature | About 70°F (21°C) | University of Maryland |
| Light | Bright, not direct sun | University of Maryland |
| Water change | At least twice a week | University of Maryland |
| Best timing | Soft new shoots in spring | RHS |
Why Do Mint Cuttings in Water Root So Fast?
Mint is a vigorous herbaceous perennial that spreads by creeping stems. The RHS describes it as extremely easy to propagate, noting that stems placed in a jar of water soon produce roots. University of Maryland Extension lists cuttings, including stem or stolon clippings, along with division as standard propagation for peppermint and spearmint. That built-in drive to root at nodes is why mint cuttings in water are almost foolproof.
How Do You Take Mint Cuttings for Water?
- Pick soft, healthy shoots without flowers. The RHS recommends softwood cuttings from new shoots in spring.
- Cut 3–5 inches (8–13 cm) just below a node with clean scissors.
- Strip the lower leaves so 1–2 nodes are bare.
- Keep the top 4–6 leaves. Pinch off a few large ones if the cutting wilts.
- Use thinner stems. University of Maryland notes thick stems can take longer to root and may rot first.
How Do You Root Mint Cuttings in Water Step by Step?
- Fill a clean glass with fresh tap water.
- Place cuttings so nodes are underwater and no leaves are submerged.
- Set the glass in bright light but not direct sun.
- Keep it near 70°F (21°C), away from cold drafts.
- Change the water at least twice a week, or when cloudy.
- Watch for white roots at the nodes.
- Let roots grow another week or two, then pot or keep in water.
How Long Do Mint Cuttings in Water Take to Root?
Usually one to two weeks. The RHS school propagation lesson, which roots 4-inch (10 cm) mint stems in a jar on a windowsill, says roots form in one to two weeks. University of Maryland notes rooting can take several weeks for houseplants in general, so cooler rooms will be slower. After roots appear, Maryland suggests letting them develop in water for another week or two before planting into a small, well-draining container.
Why Are My Mint Cuttings in Water Rotting?
- Submerged leaves: They decay and foul the water.
- Infrequent water changes: Maryland warns bacterial growth can lead to rotting.
- Thick, woody stems: Slower to root and prone to rot.
- Too many cuttings in one glass: Crowding reduces oxygen.
- Hot direct sun: Warms water and stresses leaves.
Can Mint Cuttings in Water Grow Long Term?
Yes, mint grows well in water for a long time. Once rooted, add a complete hydroponic nutrient at low strength, because plain water has few nutrients. Keep the jar opaque or wrapped to limit algae. For a full system, see our guide to growing mint hydroponically or the Kratky method.
When Should You Plant Mint Cuttings in Water Into Soil?
When roots are 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) long. Use a small pot with well-draining mix and keep it moist until new leaves appear, as Maryland advises. Then move it to a larger container: Maryland recommends containers about 12–16 inches (30–40 cm) across to keep mint from taking over the garden.
Why Should Mint Stay in a Container?
Mint spreads aggressively. Maryland suggests trimming runners that creep out of the pot, or sinking a bottomless pot into the ground with about an inch (2.5 cm) above the soil so runners are easy to spot. The RHS also recommends a bottomless container with the rim slightly above the surface. Both say containers are the simplest way to keep mint in bounds.
Which Mint Varieties Root Best in Water?
- Spearmint (Mentha spicata): Sweet, classic flavor; roots quickly.
- Peppermint (Mentha × piperita): Strong scent; often grown from cuttings because, as the RHS notes, many varieties don’t come true from seed.
- Apple, chocolate and lime mint: Flavored types that root the same way.
The RHS notes pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is listed as harmful if eaten, so buy culinary mints from a reputable supplier.
How Do You Care for Rooted Mint Cuttings?
Maryland says peppermint grows best in rich, moist soil and is most productive in full sun, while spearmint likes somewhat moist soil and full sun to part shade. Harvest often: Maryland notes frequent harvesting encourages bushy growth. Indoors, a sunny windowsill or grow light keeps mint compact. See our best herbs for hydroponics for companions.
Can You Take Mint Cuttings in Water Any Time of Year?
Yes. The RHS lesson notes stem cuttings can be taken all year round, while root cuttings are best in autumn. Spring shoots root fastest because they’re soft and actively growing, but a winter cutting from a healthy indoor pot will still root, just more slowly. In cool months, keep the jar in the warmest bright spot in your home or under a small LED, and avoid cold windowsills at night.
Can You Grow Mint Cuttings in Water Through Winter?
Yes. The RHS notes potted mint can be brought indoors in autumn to a sunny windowsill for winter harvests, and it suggests rhizome cuttings indoors in November for fresh mint at Christmas. Jars of rooted mint cuttings in water do the same job on a kitchen counter under a small grow light.
What Problems Affect Mint Cuttings?
The RHS notes mint is generally healthy but mint rust can be a problem. Discard any cutting with orange pustules on leaves or stems. Rinse cuttings before putting them in water to remove hitchhiking aphids or mites.
FAQs
Can I root grocery store mint in water?
Yes. The RHS school lesson uses a pot of young supermarket mint; cut stems with fresh, green nodes also work.
Does mint need rooting hormone?
No. It roots readily on its own.
How many mint cuttings per glass?
Three to five, with space between stems.
Should I put mint cuttings in sunlight?
Bright, indirect light is best until roots form.
Can I root mint from a single leaf?
No. You need a stem piece with a node.
Sources
- Royal Horticultural Society — How to Grow Mint
- University of Maryland Extension — Growing Mint in a Home Garden
- University of Maryland Extension (Maryland Grows) — Make More Plants From Cuttings: 5 Plants That Root Easily in Water
- Royal Horticultural Society — Asexual Reproduction: Mint Stem and Root Cuttings
- Photo credits (Wikimedia Commons, edited with titles): 00 1984 Grüne Minze (Mentha Spicata) – Schmetterling (Weissling) by W. Bulach (CC BY-SA 4.0); Plant of mint 2025 by Learner eyes (CC BY-SA 4.0); Starr-080608-7435-Mentha spicata-leaves-Water plant Sand Island-Midway Atoll (41264499822) by Forest and Kim Starr (CC BY 3.0 us); Ficus cuttings with roots in a bottle, White background by Biusch (CC BY-SA 3.0); Basilikum (Ocimum basilicum) Stecklinge — Josef Schlaghecken by Schlaghecken Josef (CC BY-SA 4.0)