When to Plant Mint in Bonner County, ID
Mint is a vigorous perennial herb with refreshing, aromatic leaves used in teas, cocktails, and cooking. It spreads aggressively by underground runners.
Bonner County, Idaho is in USDA Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 5 and the first fall frost is October 3, giving you a growing season of approximately 151 days.
At an elevation of 7,480 feet, Bonner County receives approximately 12.9 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 86°F, providing good warmth for Mint during the growing season. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Mint successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Bonner County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.4-8.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Mint
Mint needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Mint Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 0.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | — | 1.1" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Apr | — | 1.5" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| May | 4.3" | 1.5" | 2.8" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 0.9" | 3.4" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Aug | 4.3" | 1.2" | 3.1" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 1.1" | 3.2" | 🚿 Regular watering |
| Nov | — | 0.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Dec | — | 0.7" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (May–Oct in Bonner County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Mint Planting Timeline — Bonner County, ID
Mint Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 12 | May 12 – May 26 |
| Harvest | July 14 | Jul 14 – Sep 22 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 8" apart · Rows 12" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | — |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | Harvest |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Partial Shade (3-6 hours)
💧 Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
📅 Days to Maturity
60–90 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 5b
📆 Growing Season
151 days in Bonner County
Growing Tips for Bonner County
Always grow mint in containers or with underground barriers to control spreading. Harvest regularly to keep plants compact. Cut plants back in late summer for a fresh fall flush.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Mint in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Mint in Bonner County, ID?
Bonner County is in Zone 5b with an average last frost of May 5. Plan your Mint planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Bonner County, ID?
Bonner County, Idaho is in USDA Hardiness Zone 5b. The average last spring frost is May 5 and first fall frost is October 3.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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