Contain the roots
Many mints spread vigorously. Start a correctly labelled culinary plant in its own pot rather than letting it compete with slower herbs in a shared planter. Inspect escaping stems and roots, especially when pots sit beside other soil.
Mint can grow in sun or partial shade. Keep its mix reasonably moist with free drainage. An exposed balcony may dry it quickly; use the moisture checks rather than a fixed daily dose.
Refresh as growth changes
Pick young shoot tips while leaving enough healthy growth. A crowded established clump can be divided and replanted into fresh mix at an appropriate local season. Seasonal dieback can be normal for herbaceous mint; do not assume every bare winter stem means the plant has died.
Keep the plant label. A familiar smell or common name is not enough to identify a plant for eating. Buy mint sold for culinary use from a reliable supplier.
Reference
- RHS: how to grow mint (identification, containment and care).