Can I eat mint with rust spots?

It is best to avoid eating leaves that show signs of fungus. Stick to the healthy, clean leaves.

How do I stop rust from coming back?

Keep the foliage dry and provide good airflow. If you have had rust before, be extra careful not to crowd your plants.

What are these spots on my mint leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look at the underside of the leaves for orange spots.
Check if the leaves stay wet for hours after watering.
Remove any damaged or spotted leaves.

Likely causes

Mint rust
Most likely
How to tell: Small orange or brown pustules appear on the undersides of the leaves. The leaves may eventually yellow and fall off.
What to do: Remove and dispose of all infected leaves immediately. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering.
Overhead watering
Possible
How to tell: Brown or black spots appear on the leaves after you water. The foliage stays wet for too long.
What to do: Water at the base of the plant instead of pouring water over the leaves. Ensure the plant is in a spot where the leaves can dry out quickly.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mint

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Rust can spread quickly and ruin the whole plant. If the infection is severe, it is best to discard the plant to protect others.

Stopping it coming back

Water only the soil and keep the leaves dry. Ensure your mint has plenty of space for air to move around it.

Mint: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mint and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I eat mint with rust spots?: It is best to avoid eating leaves that show signs of fungus. Stick to the healthy, clean leaves.
How do I stop rust from coming back?: Keep the foliage dry and provide good airflow. If you have had rust before, be extra careful not to crowd your plants.

Guides to these causes

Mint Rust

What are these spots on my mint leaves?