you may in spades grow your own stevia ! Stevia is a perfumed herbaceous plant that is low-down in kilocalorie and can be a nifty addition to your garden or even grow in container if you have limited space . In fact , growing stevia in container can be a commodious choice as it allows you to move the works around and secure it gets the idealistic amount of sunlight .

To startle growing stevia , you will need to choose a worthy location for your plants . Stevia thrives in full sun , so appear for an surface area in your garden that receive at least six hour of direct sunlight per day . If you are growing stevia in container , place them in a cheery spot on your patio or balcony .

Next , ascertain that the soil you use is well - drain and has a pH point between 6.7 and 7.2 . you may try out the pH level of your soil using a soil testing outfit , which is readily usable at most garden centers . If your soil is too acidic , you’re able to add some lime to leaven the pH level .

When it come to planting stevia , make trusted to space the plants approximately 18 in apart if you are grow them in the ground . If you are using containers , opt for 12 - inch skunk to provide enough space for the plants to acquire . Stevia works can contact a top of 1 - 3 foot , so ensure you pick out container that can lodge their size .

Before planting , set the soil by loosening it with a garden fork or tiller . Remove any weeds or rocks and mix in some compost or well - rotted manure to ameliorate the dirt ’s fertility rate and drain .

Now it ’s time to plant your stevia . Dig a hole slenderly orotund than the ascendent lump of the plant and gently place it in the hole . Backfill the hole with soil , making certain to firmly press the soil around the plant to eliminate any air pockets . water supply the plant thoroughly after planting to help it settle into its new domicile .

Once your stevia plants are in the ground or container , it ’s important to provide them with veritable care . piss the works on a regular basis to keep the grime systematically moist but not waterlogged . Stevia works prefer slightly drier conditions , so be measured not to overwater them .

Fertilize your stevia plants every 4 - 6 hebdomad with a balanced constitutional fertilizer to promote respectable maturation . to boot , consider mulching around the plants to help oneself conserve wet and suppress smoke growth .

Stevia is a relatively low-toned - maintenance flora , but it ’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of pests or disease . vernacular pest that may set on stevia let in aphids and whiteflies . If you notice any infestation , you could try using organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil to bring off the trouble .

When it comes time to glean your stevia , await until the plants have achieve a tiptop of 8 - 12 inches . At this head , the leaves will have the highest absorption of sweetness . Simply pick the leaves off the industrial plant and dry out them in a well - ventilated orbit out of direct sunlight . Once dried , you could crush the leave of absence into a pulverisation or use them to sweeten drinkable and formula .

Growing your own stevia can be a rewarding and sustainable way to enjoy this odoriferous herb . Whether you have a garden or limited space for container , you could successfully get stevia with right care and attention . So go forrader and give it a try – you ’ll be able-bodied to love the natural sweetness of stevia right from your own backyard !

Caroline Bates