Stevia Seeds

Stevia rebaudiana

18" - 20' apart

Light green leaves

1/4"

Full sun

This can be blended into teas, dried, and powdered for coffee, teas, smoothies, etc. It can also be steeped in hot water to make a sugar-free simple syrup.

Yes

80-110 days

Perennial / grown as an annual in cooler zones. 

Yes

Yes

Sweet Leaf 

Planting Stevia Seeds

• Timing: Start stevia seeds indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last frost. In Colorado Springs, this would typically be in late March or early April. If you plan to grow stevia solely as a houseplant, you can start seeds anytime.

• Seed Starting Mix: Use a well-draining seed starting mix. You can purchase a pre-made mix or make your own using equal parts peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

• Sowing:

  • Moisten the seed starting mix before sowing.
  • Scatter the stevia seeds on the surface of the mix. Stevia seeds need light to germinate, so don't bury them.
  • Gently press the seeds into the mix to ensure good contact.

• Warmth and Moisture:

  • Place the seed tray or pots in a warm location with temperatures between 68-75°F (20-24°C). A seed starting heat mat can help maintain consistent temperatures.
  • Keep the mix consistently moist but not waterlogged. A spray bottle is helpful for gentle watering.

• Germination: Stevia seeds can take 10-21 days to germinate. Be patient!

• Light: Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or grow lights are ideal.

Transplanting and Care

• Hardening Off: Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate the seedlings to outdoor conditions by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing the time gradually over a week or two.

• Transplanting Outdoors:

  • After the last frost, transplant the seedlings outdoors when they have a few sets of true leaves.
  • Choose a location with full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) and well-draining soil.
  • Space the plants about 12-18 inches apart.

• Container Growing:

  • If growing in containers, choose pots that are at least 12 inches wide and have drainage holes.
  • Use a well-draining potting mix.

• Watering:

  • Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Stevia prefers slightly drier conditions once established.
  • Water more frequently during hot, dry periods.

• Fertilizing:

  • Stevia is not a heavy feeder. Fertilize lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.

• Pruning:

  • Pinch back the tips of the stevia plants regularly to encourage bushier growth.
  • Remove any flowers that appear to promote leaf production.

Additional Tips:

• Pests and Diseases: Stevia is generally pest and disease resistant. However, watch for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
• Harvesting: Harvest stevia leaves before the plant flowers for the sweetest flavor. You can harvest individual leaves or cut back entire stems.
• Drying and Storing: Dry the harvested leaves in a cool, dark place. Once dried, store them in airtight containers.