How to Grow Stevia
Stevia rebaudiana
When to Start
Start seeds indoors 5 weeks before your last frost date. Transplant outdoors once night temperatures stay above 11°C and soil has warmed to at least 18°C.
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Growth Stages
Approximate days from start
Care Essentials
- Light liquid feed every 2–3 weeks. Stevia is a light feeder — overfeeding reduces leaf sweetness.
- Stevia is a frost-sensitive perennial grown as an annual in temperate climates. It needs warmth and humidity similar to basil. Short days trigger flowering, which reduces leaf sweetness — keep plants in long-day conditions as long as possible. Can be overwintered indoors on a bright windowsill.
Companion Planting
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Growing Conditions
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- Sow indoors
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- Transplant out
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- First harvest
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Spacing & Planting
| Plant spacing | 30 cm |
| Row spacing | 45 cm |
| Sow depth | 0 cm |
| Mature height | 60 cm |
| Mature spread | 40 cm |
Allows good air circulation and room for bushy growth. Space closer only if harvesting very frequently.
Care Guide
- Feeding
- Light liquid feed every 2–3 weeks. Stevia is a light feeder — overfeeding reduces leaf sweetness.
- Watch for
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- Aphids
- Whitefly
- Powdery mildew
- Root rot
- Cold damage
Pests & Diseases
Pest Aphids
Identification: Small soft-bodied insects clustering on new growth and shoot tips; sticky honeydew residue on leaves
- Insecticidal soap spray
- Strong water spray to dislodge
- Encourage ladybirds and lacewings
- Approved systemic insecticides
Pest Whitefly
Identification: Tiny white flying insects on undersides of leaves; leaves become sticky and yellowed
- Yellow sticky traps
- Insecticidal soap spray
- Biological control (Encarsia formosa in greenhouse)
- Approved contact insecticides
Disease Powdery Mildew Various species
Symptoms: White powdery coating on leaves and stems, more common in warm dry conditions with poor air circulation
Treatment: Improve air circulation, remove affected leaves, apply sulphur-based fungicide if severe
Prevention: Good ventilation, avoid overcrowding, water at soil level, avoid wetting foliage
Disease Root Rot Pythium spp.
Symptoms: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, dark mushy roots
Treatment: Improve drainage, reduce watering, remove affected plants
Prevention: Well-draining compost, avoid waterlogging, do not overwater
Growing Conditions
| Min. soil temperature | 18°C |
| Germination temperature | 20–25°C |
| Base growth temperature | 11°C |
| Photoperiod sensitivity | short day |
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far apart should I plant Stevia?
- Plant Stevia 30cm apart with 45cm between rows.
- When can I harvest Stevia?
- Stevia is ready to harvest approximately 60 days after transplanting.
- Is Stevia frost hardy?
- Stevia is classified as Tender.
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