Herb Specifications
- Season: Perennial
- USDA Zones: 9 - 10
- Height: 12 inches
- Bloom Season: Can bloom year round
- Bloom Color: White
- Environment: Partial shade
- Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, pH 6.1 to 6.5
Planting Directions
- Temperature: 68 - 75F
- Average Germ Time: 7 - 14 days
- Light Required: Yes
- Depth: Press seed onto surface of soil, cover lightly with peat moss
- Sowing Rate: 2 - 3 seeds per plant
- Moisture: Keep moist until germination
- Plant Spacing: 12 inches
Stevia Sweetleaf (Stevia Rebaudiana) - Stevia is a well-known culinary herb that is used as a sweetener. The leaves are 20 – 30 times sweeter than sugar cane, but with no calories or carbohydrates. Stevia could even be considered a medicinal herb because it nourishes the pancreas and does not raise blood glucose levels. This makes it not only safe for diabetics but also beneficial. Dieters also benefit from the sweetening of Stevia without the harm that artificial sweeteners are known for. The leaves can be applied directly into drinks or made into tea. The dried leaves can also be ground into powder and used in recipes that call for Green Stevia Powder. For sweetness, 3 table spoons fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon powder equals 1 cup of sugar.
Stevia is a rewarding plant to grow in the herb garden! It is a tender perennial that is native to subtropical regions. Wild plants often grow on the edges of marches or streams. Stevia can be successfully grown in the herb garden in most any region. It prefers a well-drained sandy loam. Raised beds ensure that the roots do not have too much moisture, and organic compost and regular watering give adequate moisture and nutrients. In colder, northern climates, grow Stevia herb plants as annuals.
Start the Stevia seed indoors 6 – 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use a starter mix and gently press the seeds into the soil. Lightly cover the seeds with peat moss. Keep seeds consistently moist by watering from the bottom of the container. A plastic dome or plastic wrap over the tray or containers is helpful in keeping the moisture in. To encourage a bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the plant 2 – 3 times before transplanting outdoors. Transplant outdoors into a prepared bed after danger of frost has passed. If possible, give the plants some protection from wind. Consistent moisture is important during the summer. Soaker hoses work well for deep weekly watering. Plants can be wintered indoors if given adequate light. A sunny, south facing window or a fluorescent light is needed.
Harvest the Stevia herb leaves when the flavor is the highest which is before flowering or as soon as the blossoms appear. Stems can be cut in the morning after dew has dried, bunched together and hung upside down in a well-ventilated place. Leaves are crisp and bright green when they are fully dry.
