Stevia is a natural sugar alternative producing leaves up to 30 times sweeter than sugar with zero calories. Perfect for teas, baked goods, and beverages, its fresh or dried leaves are a healthier choice for sweetening recipes. This bushy, high-yielding plant thrives as a perennial in frost-free climates and is ideal for health-conscious gardeners looking to reduce refined sugar.
Stevia Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow stevia seeds outdoors in late spring, after the last frost date, when soil temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Stevia prefers warm weather and does not tolerate frost.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Stevia thrives in fertile, loamy soil but tolerates sandy or rocky conditions if drainage is good.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8-10 inches and incorporate compost to improve fertility. Stevia prefers soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds on the soil surface and press them lightly to ensure good contact. Cover with a very thin layer of soil, as stevia seeds need light to germinate.
- Space seeds or plants 18-24 inches apart for proper airflow and growth.
- Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist until seeds germinate, which typically takes 7-14 days. Once established, stevia is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start stevia seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds on the soil surface and press gently to ensure contact. Do not bury seeds deeply.
- Mist the soil gently to keep it evenly moist without waterlogging.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7-14 days, though germination rates can vary.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 70 degrees Fahrenheit and plants have at least 2-3 sets of true leaves. Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
General Care Tips for Stevia
- Sunlight: Provide full sun for best growth. Stevia requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Watering: Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Avoid waterlogging, as stevia prefers well-draining soil.
- Fertilizing: Enrich the soil with compost before planting. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth.
- Pruning: Regularly prune or pinch back the tips of stevia plants to encourage bushy growth. Removing flower buds helps prolong leaf production.
- Pest and Disease Control: Stevia is relatively pest- and disease-resistant. Proper spacing ensures good airflow, reducing the risk of fungal issues.
- Harvesting:
- For Leaves: Begin harvesting leaves when the plant is 8-12 inches tall. Snip stems just above a leaf node to encourage regrowth.
- For Drying: Harvest the entire plant before the first frost for maximum sweetness. Dry leaves in a cool, well-ventilated area.
- Storage: Store fresh stevia leaves in a damp paper towel in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dried leaves can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
