At a glimpse
Stevia , a innate sweetener derived from the leaves of theStevia rebaudiana plant , has gained immense popularity as a sugar backup man . With its power to offer sweetness without the Calorie of sugar , stevia has become a sought - after ingredient in various food and drink products . If you ’re eager to cultivate your own stevia , sowing seedsis the most frugal andrewarding method acting . This detailed template will take the air you through the essential dance step on how to sow stevia seeds successfully .
Choosing the Right Seeds
The first stone’s throw ingrowing steviais selecting high - quality ejaculate . await for reputable supplier whooffer certified organicand non - GMO germ . view the specific diversity you want to develop , as different cultivars show variation in sweetness and leafage size .
Preparing the Soil
Stevia prefers well - enfeeble soilwith a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 . remedy the soil withorganic matter , such as compost or manure , toimprove fertilityand drainage . control the stain is light and gratuitous of any debris or weed .
Sowing the Seeds
Sow the stevia seeds thinly and evenly on theprepared soil open . Lightly hatch the seeds with athin layerof soil , about 1/8 inch deep . Avoid sink the seeds too deeply , as this can inhibit sprouting .
Watering
Keep thesoil consistently moistbut not waterlogged . Stevia seeds ask moisture to germinate , but excessive lacrimation can pass to damp off . Use aspray bottleor watering can to gently irrigate the seed and nullify disturb them .
Temperature and Light
Stevia seed germinate good inwarm temperaturesbetween 70 - 85 ° F ( 21 - 29 ° coulomb ) . Provide copious sunshine orartificial lightfor at least 14 - 16 60 minutes per day . Consider using a grow sparkle if sunlight is limited .
Germination
Stevia seed typically germinate within 7 - 14 days . Once theseedlings emerge , thin them out to thestrongest plant , spacing them about 6 - 8 inch apart . This will allow the plants to germinate properly and maximize their redolence .
Transplanting
When the stevia seedlings have prepare several circle oftrue leaves , they can be transplanted intolarger containersor the garden . opt a sunny locating with well - drained stain . poke a hollow twice the size of it of the source ball and carefully transplant the seedlings , ensuring the root are not damage .
Care and Maintenance
Water thestevia plants on a regular basis , especially during spicy anddry weather . Fertilize the plants every few calendar week with a balanced fluent fertilizer . murder any sens or debris around the plants toprevent competitionand disease .
Harvesting
Stevia leaves can be harvested throughout thegrowing season . The sweetest leaves aretypically foundonmature plants , so allow the plants to spring up for at least 60 days before harvesting . Cut the leaves from the stems and dry out them in a affectionate , well - ventilated area for late use .
Wrapping Up: Sweet Rewards for Your Efforts
Sowing stevia seeds is arewarding experiencethat can provide you with a natural andhealthy sweetener . By following the steps draft in this usher , you may successfully cultivate your own stevia flora and enjoy the sweet reward of your toil . think back to provide the plants with the necessary care and attention , and they will prosper and produce an abundance ofsweet leavesfor years to come .
Questions You May Have
1 . How long does it take forstevia seedsto germinate?Stevia seed typically shoot within 7 - 14 days.2 . What is theideal temperaturefor stevia germ germination?Stevia seeds germinate best inwarm temperaturesbetween 70 - 85 ° F ( 21 - 29 ° C).3 . How deep should I plant stevia seeds?Stevia seeds should be implant about 1/8inch deepin the soil.4 . How far apart should I space stevia plants?Stevia plants should be spaced about 6 - 8 inches apart to allow forproper growthand development.5 . How often should I water stevia plants?Water stevia embed on a regular basis , especially during hot anddry weather condition . Keep thesoil consistently moistbut not waterlogged.6 . How do I reap stevia leaves?Cut thestevia leavesfrom the stems when the plants are mature , typically after 60 Clarence Shepard Day Jr. of growth.7 . How can I dry stevia leaves?Dry stevia leaves in a warm , well - ventilate areauntil they arecompletely dryand brittle .
