Sugar & Crops· Stevia rebaudiana
Stevia Growing Guide
A perennial herb native to Paraguay producing steviol glycosides 200-350 times sweeter than sucrose with zero calories. Commercially cultivated as a natural sweetener crop, with leaves harvested and dried for extraction.
How Long Does Stevia Take to Grow?
Stevia is typically ready to harvest about 120 days after planting.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: sandy loam, loam, silt loam
pH range: 5 - 6.5 (optimal: 5.8)
Drainage: good
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- whiteflies
- aphids
- mealybugs
Common Diseases
- septoria leaf spot
- sclerotinia stem rot
- rhizoctonia
Use AI crop disease detection to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Propagate from stem cuttings rather than seed for uniform steviol glycoside content -- seed-grown plants vary widely in sweetness.
Harvest just before flowering when stevioside concentration peaks; cut stems 10 cm above ground to allow regrowth.
Stevia is a short-day plant -- supplemental lighting extends vegetative growth and delays flowering in equatorial regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Stevia take to grow?
Stevia typically takes 120 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 14 days. The best planting season is spring.
What soil does Stevia need?
Stevia grows best in sandy loam, loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 5-6.5. Good drainage is required.
What temperature does Stevia need?
Stevia grows best at 20-28°C. Frost tolerance: none. Heat tolerance: moderate.
How much sun and water does Stevia need?
Stevia thrives with full sun light and moderate watering.
Key Agronomy Terms
Core farming concepts, explained in plain language.
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