How to Sow
Start indoors 8-10 weeks before last anticipated frost. Lightly cover and keep moist. Place containers in a south facing window or under grow lights until seedlings emerge. Seedlings emerge in 7-14 days.
How to Grow
Transplant to individual containers when seedlings have at least two pairs of leaves. Be careful not to overwater your stevia. Only give them a drink when you need to prevent wilting. Before transplanting into the garden, but after the last frost, "harden off" plants by setting in a shady location outdoors for one week. After last frost, set plants out in the garden, spacing 18" apart.
Harvesting
Stevia is ready for harvest 40 days after transplanting. This herb is 30 times sweeter than sugar. And the small, green leaves are a sugar-free natural sweetener. Try fresh leaves in drinks or as an edible garnish. To make Stevia powder, dry individual leaves on screens or pull the entire plant and hang to dry. Store dried, crushed leaves in a airtight container.