How to cultivate stevia in a pot

If you have a green thumb and a love for natural sweeteners, growing stevia in a pot might just be the perfect gardening project for you. Stevia is a small, perennial herb that is native to South America. It is well-known for its insanely sweet leaves, which contain natural compounds called steviol glycosides that are up to 200 times sweeter than sugar. With a little patience and proper care, you can successfully cultivate stevia in a pot and enjoy the benefits of this remarkable plant right at home. Here’s how to get started:

Choose the Right Pot:
To successfully grow stevia in a pot, you’ll need to choose the right container. Opt for a pot that has good drainage holes at the bottom. Stevia prefers well-draining soil, so make sure your pot has the proper drainage to avoid root rot. A pot around twelve inches in diameter should be sufficient to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Pick the Perfect Spot:
Stevia thrives in full sun, so choose a sunny location for your pot. A minimum of six hours of sunlight per day is essential for the plant’s optimal growth. If you live in an extremely hot climate, you can place the pot where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade to protect the plant from scorching.

Use the Appropriate Soil:
Stevia grows best in a light, loamy soil that is well-drained. You can create a suitable soil mixture by combining equal parts potting soil, sand, and perlite. This mixture will ensure that the soil retains enough moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Planting Stevia:
Before planting stevia, it’s recommended to start the seeds indoors about eight weeks before the last frost date. After the threat of frost has passed, you can transfer the seedlings to the pot. Plant the seedlings at the same depth they were growing in the original container, about one inch below the soil surface. Space the plants around twelve inches apart to prevent overcrowding.

Watering Requirements:
Stevia needs consistent moisture to thrive, but it’s important not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings, then water thoroughly until the water drains out of the pot’s bottom holes. This will prevent the plant from sitting in water, which can lead to root rot. Keep in mind that stevia is susceptible to drought, so make sure to water it during dry spells.

Fertilizing Stevia:
Stevia is not an overly demanding plant when it comes to fertilizers. A balanced, organic fertilizer can be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season to provide the plants with necessary nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excessive nitrogen can negatively impact stevia’s sweetness.

Pruning and Harvesting:
To encourage bushy growth, it is recommended to pinch back the growing tips of the plant when it reaches about six inches in height. This will encourage lateral branching, resulting in a fuller plant. Once stevia has reached maturity, usually after about three to four months of growth, you can start harvesting its leaves. For maximum sweetness, it’s best to harvest the leaves just before the flowers start to bloom. Simply pick off the leaves and let them dry in a cool, dark place. Once dry, you can crush the leaves into fine powder or use them to sweeten beverages and dishes directly.

Cultivating stevia in a pot is not only a rewarding gardening experience but also a great way to enjoy a natural sweetener without any guilt. With the right care and attention, you can have a thriving stevia plant flourishing right on your patio or balcony, providing you with a sweet addition to your meals and drinks all year round.