How to Grow Stevia

Soil, care & harvest

Prepare well-draining soil with a pH between 6.7 and 7.2, as Stevia thrives in these slightly alkaline conditions. Since it is a tender perennial sensitive to cold, you should start seeds indoors only after all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are warm enough for growth. Sow seeds about one-quarter inch deep; germination typically takes between seven and twenty-one days.

Space plants twelve to eighteen inches apart in your garden bed. Provide consistent moisture but avoid letting the soil become waterlogged, as this invites root rot. Apply a light layer of mulch around the base to retain humidity while keeping roots cool. Feed sparingly with a balanced fertilizer if growth seems sluggish, though Stevia is generally low-maintenance once established.

Watch for aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites; spray with insecticidal soap or water to manage infestations early. Prevent root rot by ensuring excellent drainage and avoid powdery mildew by providing good air circulation between plants. Harvest leaves once the plant reaches maturity, which occurs roughly one hundred to one hundred twenty days after sowing, snipping stems just above a leaf node.