How to harvest mint: practical tips from Ortomec

Mint is a crop of great interest for agricultural companies working with fresh herbs, fourth-range products, or processing industries. Harvesting mint correctly means obtaining a more aromatic, more resilient, and more profitable product.

In this guide, we share the best professional harvesting practices, the result of Ortomec’s experience in the field of leafy crop management. You will learn how to organize the harvest, which tools to use, and how to preserve quality up to storage.

Equipment needed for harvesting mint

To work efficiently and competitively, mint harvesting must be mechanized and standardized. Here are the main tools:

• Ortomec belt harvester. Ideal for large-scale producers. It allows precise adjustment of cutting height (usually between 40 and 70 mm, adaptable to the mint variety and product type). The belt gently conveys the leaves, avoiding damage or crushing. Adjustable forward speed allows steady work even with different biomass densities or varying soil moisture.
• Containers and sorting systems. Perforated crates or megaboxes, easy to clean, ensuring aeration and hygiene. Sorting tables or roller conveyors help remove damaged leaves or impurities.
• Rapid cooling systems (pre-cooling). Essential for companies operating with short supply chains or fourth-range production. Cooling at 0-2 °C within the first few hours after harvest preserves color, aroma, and leaf turgidity.

How to harvest mint (operational workflow)

Effective harvesting starts with field preparation and correct machine setup.

1. Field inspection. Check crop uniformity, canopy height (20-30 cm), and soil moisture. Avoid harvesting immediately after irrigation or when the soil is too dry.
2. Harvester adjustment
   • Cutting height: 4-7 cm from the ground, to encourage regrowth.
   • Always keep blades sharp for a clean cut.
   • Belt speed adjusted to plant density.
3. Cutting and conveying. The cut must be clean, without tearing. Ortomec harvesters ensure a continuous harvesting flow, with minimal mechanical stress and maximum product integrity.
4. Field management. Collect in ventilated crates, protected from direct sunlight. Whenever possible, start the cold chain immediately to prevent oxidation.

When to harvest mint

• For the fresh market or fourth range: the ideal moment is before flowering, when the plant is still tender and rich in essential oils. Harvest in the coolest hours of the morning or evening, when temperature is stable and leaves are dry.
• For processing or drying: you can harvest at the beginning of flowering, when aromatic content is at its peak.

In professional production, multiple cuts are carried out during the season (every 3-5 weeks), depending on growth rate and cultivated variety.

How to store fresh mint

To maintain the commercial quality of freshly harvested mint:

• Cool the product within 30-60 minutes after harvest.
• Store at 0-2 °C with relative humidity between 90-95%.
• Avoid compression or crushing during storage and transport.
• Use micro-perforated films or modified-atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life.

Under these conditions, fresh mint retains its aroma and appearance for 7-10 days, depending on packaging type.

How to dry mint

Drying is a crucial phase for those supplying the food or herbal industry.

1. Preparation: remove damaged or overripe leaves.
2. Drying: maintain a controlled temperature between 35 and 45 °C, with constant airflow.
3. Final humidity: 10-12%, ensuring microbiological stability.
4. Cooling and packaging: store in barrier bags, away from light and humidity.

Slow, uniform drying preserves essential oils and maintains aromatic intensity.

Frequently asked questions

Why does mint need to be cut?

Regular cutting keeps the plant young and productive. A well-executed harvest:

• stimulates rapid regrowth;
• prevents stem lignification;
• improves leaf quality for subsequent cuts.

How to harvest mint so it keeps growing?

• Perform a clean cut 4-7 cm above ground level, leaving some basal leaves.
• Maintain regular irrigation and nutrition after cutting.
• Plan 3-5 week intervals between harvests.

This management approach allows multiple production cycles per year, ensuring consistent quality and aroma.

Why choose Ortomec for mint harvesting

In B2B production, the difference comes down to precision, productivity, and cutting quality. The Ortomec belt harvesters offer tangible advantages:

• Uniform and adjustable cutting, suitable for all mint varieties.
• Gentle conveying, preserving leaf integrity.
• High operational capacity, perfect for farms managing large areas or multiple annual cycles.
• Easy cleaning and maintenance, compliant with industry hygiene standards.

If you want to reduce operating costs and ensure consistent quality, let’s talk. Investing in Ortomec solutions means improving production efficiency and guaranteeing a premium-quality final product ready for the most demanding markets.