Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia is becoming more and more popular as a low-calorie sweetener. Stevia loves heat and sunshine. In warmer zones (8 and above) it can be successfully overwintered.
How to Grow Stevia
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Growing from Seed
It is generally recommended to start stevia indoors then transplant out. You can also buy transplants locally or online.
Planting Considerations
Although stevia is a perennial, second-year growth will be much weaker than that of the previous year. For this reason, it is often grown as an annual crop. Ensure that your stevia is planted in well-draining soil.
Feeding
Fertilize the soil around your stevia plants regularly with a water-soluble solution.
Harvesting
Harvest stevia in the late fall, as cool temperatures make its leaves even sweeter! To harvest, cut entire branches off.
Storage
Stevia can be dried in either the sun or a dehydrator. You can use the leaves themselves to flavor foods, or make them into an extract.
