How to Grow Stevia

Start with stevia transplants rather than seed. Stevia seeds are notoriously difficult to germinate and seeds produce plants of inconsistent quality.

Ensure that the last frost is past and soil temperatures are in the 60 degree F range before planting your stevia in the ground. Early planting doesn't give you a head start. Stevia plants pout in cold soil.

Plant stevia in rich soil amended with ample compost in a sunny location. Mature plants reach 2 ½ feet and spread 2 feet, so plant at least 2 feet apart and leave 2 feet between rows.

Fertilize lightly with a fertilizer low in nitrogen. If you use nutrient rich mulch such as manure or compost, fertilizing isn't necessary.

Water just enough to keep the stevia plants from wilting. Over watering reduces stevoside content and can cause root rot. Place a 3-inch layer of mulch to keep the soil evenly moist.

Grow stevia amongst your bedding and vegetable plants in your garden. Stevia reportedly has pest repellant properties, so adding some plants to your garden can cause grasshoppers and aphids to bypass your plot.

Harvest stevia leaves as late as possible before the first frost, so that stevoside levels reach their maximum concentration. If you live in a frost free area, your plants may grow over the winter. If so, replace them every 3 years for best productivity.