Candy Stevia Seeds
If you have never tried a fresh leaf from the Stevia plant, you are in for a treat! Stevia(a.k.a sweetleaf) is a tasty perennial that produces leaves 300 times sweeter than sugar but with 0 calories and several health benefits and nutrients! In Colorado, where we are, the Celestial Seasonings tea factory in Boulder, Co. uses stevia leaves in many fruit teas and tisanes. Stevia is a wonderful alternative to sucralose (Splenda), Sweet and Low, etc., as it is a natural plant and not a synthetic compound. Stevia can be grown indoors, annually in cooler zones, or as a perennial in warmer parts.
These do extremely well in containers, and the fragrant oblong leaves can be used fresh, dried, powdered, or steeped in hot water to make a natural, simple syrup.
Seed count: 25
Botanic name:
Stevia rebaudiana
Plant spacing:
18-20 inches apart
Color:
Light green leaves
Sowing depth:
1/4 inch
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
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.
Frost Hardy:
Yes
Maturity days:
90-105 days
Life cycle:
Perennial / grown as an annual in cooler zones.
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Sweet Leaf
Growing instructions:
Planting Stevia Seeds
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Germination: Stevia seeds can take 10-21 days to germinate. Be patient!
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Light: Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with plenty of bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or grow lights are ideal.
Transplanting and Care
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Watering:
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Stevia prefers slightly drier conditions once established.
- Water more frequently during hot, dry periods.
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Fertilizing:
- Stevia is not a heavy feeder. Fertilize lightly with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
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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.
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