How to Grow Stevia Plants
Did you know that you can actually grow stevia plants right in your garden? Stevia plants are known to produce stevia powder, extract and liquid which are used as an alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners. Stevia is hundred times sweeter than sugar. But the good thing is, since it is an herbal product, you do not need to worry about harmful chemicals that may harm your body upon intake.
Another thing why Stevia is a popular alternative to commercial sweeteners is because, unlike sugar, it has zero calories and zero carbohydrates. So for those who are worried about weight gain, you can use Stevia in your foods and drinks. Stevia is also good for diabetic people because it can control your glucose level and would not increase your glycemic index.
You can actually plant Stevia plants in your on home. Stevia plants are originally grown in Paraguay but it can also survive in climate zones in Florida, Canada and other parts of the world with a good climate.
Stevia plants are best grown in an organic garden without the use of artificial fertilizers. Since Stevia plants are naturally sweet, it has its own insect-repelling tendencies. Its sweetness is actually its defense mechanism against bugs, grasshoppers and aphids.
To start with a Stevia patch in your garden, you should have high quality Stevia seeds. But it is recommended that you buy Stevia starter plants that are ready for transfer in your garden. You can buy such plants from your local herbalist. You can also purchase Stevia growers or baby plants that you can order online.
Remember that Stevia plants will not grow well in low temperature. Never plant them during winter. Ideal temperature is anywhere from 50 to 60 degrees. You can plant your Stevia plants in rows with a distance of at least 20 inches from each other. You can grow your plants as tall as 30 inches and a width of at least 18 inches.
Stevia plants should be planted in rich loamy soil. You can add compost to your soil to add extra nutrients to the plant. Excessive levels of moisture are not recommended. Make sure not to over water your plants. You don’t want your soil to be soggy or puddly.
Water your Stevia plants often during summer and add compost to avoid drying of feeder roots. Organic fertilizers are best for Stevia plants but you can also use commercial fertilizers that have low nitrogen content. These type of fertilizers release nitrogen slowly.
You can start harvesting Stevia leaves during autumn when the sweetness of the plant is at its peak. When harvesting, you can cut the branches off with a gardening shear before you strip the Stevia leaves. The tips of the stem are also said to contain sweet content that you can also use.
After harvesting, you need to dry Stevia leaves. You can do this with a screen or a net. You need a good source of air to dry them up and not excessive heat. You can dry them out in the air and the sun for 12 hours or you can also use a home dehydrator.