Stevia Sweetleaf Seeds

Stevia Sweetleaf Seeds (Stevia Rebaudiana), 10 seeds per package

It is said the Stevia leaves are 30 times sweeter than sugar. Single plant yields approximately 1/2 lb of dried leaf. All parts of the plant are sweet, but pick the herbs short-stemmed leaves for fresh use. Leaves can be sun-dried, powdered and stored in an airtight container for future use.

Start Stevia seeds and grow this well-known culinary herb. Stevia Sweetleaf could even be considered a medicinal herb. The leaves can be applied directly into drinks or made into tea. The Stevia leaves can be used in recipes that call for green Stevia powder. For sweetness, approx. 3 tablespoons fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon powder equals 1 cup of sugar.

Season: Perennial
USDA Zones: 9 - 10
Height: 12 inches
Bloom Season: Can bloom year round
Bloom Color: White
Environment: Partial shade
Soil Type: Moist, well-drained, pH 6.1 to 6.5
Temperature: 68 - 75F
Average Germ Time: 7 - 14 days
Light Required: Yes
Depth: Press seed onto surface of soil, cover lightly with peat moss
Moisture: Keep lightly moist until germination
Plant Spacing: 12 inches

Start the Stevia seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use a starter mix and gently press the herb seeds into the soil. Lightly cover the Sweet Leaf herb seeds with peat moss. Keep Stevia seeds consistently moist by watering from the bottom of the container. A plastic dome or plastic wrap over the tray or containers is helpful in keeping the moisture in.

To encourage a bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the plant 2 to 3 times before transplanting outdoors. Transplant outdoors into a prepared bed after danger of frost has passed. If possible, give the plants some protection from wind. Consistent moisture is important during the summer. Soaker hoses work well for deep weekly watering. Stevia Plants can be wintered indoors if given adequate light. A sunny, south facing window or a fluorescent light is needed.

Harvest the Stevia herb leaves when the flavor is the highest which is before flowering or as soon as the blossoms appear. Stems can be cut in the morning after dew has dried, bunched together and hung upside down in a well-ventilated place.