Stevia has leaves that are 20 - 30 times sweeter than sugar cane, but with no calories or carbohydrates. The leaves can used directly in drinks or made into tea. If dried, they can also be ground into a powder and used for recipes that call for green stevia powder.

Plant indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last frost. Or, start directly outdoors after danger of frost has passed.

Plant in partial shade in moist, well-drained soil.

• You have two options for planting seeds: Sow them directly into the garden, after the risk of frost has passed, by pressing onto the surface of soil, cover lightly with peat moss. Alternatively, start seeds indoors six to eight weeks before the average last frost date in spring.
• Presoak seeds overnight before planting 2 - 3 seeds per cell or plant.
• Keep seeds consistently moist by watering from the bottom of the container. Place a plastic dome or plastic wrap over the container to help keep moisture in.
• To encourage a bushier growth, pinch the tips of the plant back 2 - 3 times prior to transplanting outdoors.
• Once seedlings sprout, ensure they receive plenty of light by placing them on a sunny windowsill or positioning them 3-4 inches below fluorescent plant lights that are switched on for 16 hours daily and off for 8 hours at night. Adjust the lights as the plants grow taller. Avoid using incandescent bulbs as they generate excessive heat. Remember, most plants need a period of darkness to thrive, so do not keep the lights on for 24 hours.
• Transplant into garden when temperatures are consistently warm.
• Before transplanting seedlings into the garden, it's essential to "harden them off". This involves acclimating young plants to outdoor conditions by placing them in a sheltered outdoor area for about a week. Initially, shield them from strong winds and direct sunlight. If there's a risk of frost overnight, either cover the plants or bring them indoors, then return them outside in the morning. This hardening off method helps strengthen the plant's cell structure, minimizing transplant shock and sun damage.
• Space plants 12 inches apart in garden.

• Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their seeds from germinating.
• Mulches play a vital role in preserving soil moisture and ensuring consistent soil temperatures. When it comes to annuals, using organic mulch made from shredded leaves not only enhances the appearance of the bed but also enriches the soil as it decomposes over time. Remember to keep mulch away from the plant stems to avoid potential rot issues.
• It is important to provide the plants with constant moisture during the summer. A soaker hose works well for deep weekly watering.
• Harvest the Stevia leaves before flowering, or as soon as the blossoms appear, as this is when the flavor will be the highest. Cut stems in the morning after the dew has dried. Bunch them together and hang upside-down in a well-ventilated place. The leaves will turn crisp and bright green when they are fully dry.