key growing information

Growing Stevia From Seed

How to grow stevia from seed: fresh seed, shallow sowing, pinching, cold sensitivity, container growing, light, soil and harvest for sweetness.

By Hensley’s Seed Co. September 3, 2026

Stevia - Key Growing Information

Stevia plants; following sowing, seeds must receive light exposure and be kept warm and moderately moist to germinate.

DAYS TO GERMINATION:

Allow 7–21 days at 68–75°F (20–24°C).

SOWING:

Transplants are recommended. Use the seed within 6 months of purchase, storing it cool and dry for the best germination. Sow shallow 6–8 weeks before the last frost, and don't overwater. Move seedlings to cell flats
once they can be handled, and pinch the tips every few weeks for the first 1–2 months for bushier plants. Plant out 12" apart after the last frost; stevia can't take temperatures below 45°F (7°C). It also makes a great container plant for the patio or indoors: use a pot at least 14" across with well-drained mix, and keep it evenly moist.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:

Full sun to part shade; in the far South and in containers, give it some afternoon shade.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS:

Does best in average soil that drains well but stays moist. Skip high-nitrogen fertilizers, which give big, bland leaves.

PLANT HEIGHT:

Grows about 18–30" tall.

PLANT SPACING:

Space plants 12" apart.

HARDINESS ZONES:

Hardy in Zones 9–11.

HARVEST:

For the sweetest leaves, pick in the morning and before flowering. Once established, plants can be picked all season. To dry, hang small bunches somewhere dry and airy out of direct sun; dried leaves can be ground to powder for storage.

SCIENTIFIC NAME:

Stevia rebaudiana