Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana), 10 seeds

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is a natural sweetener and sugar substitute. Sow stevia seeds in seedling trays on the surface of the soil, pressing them lightly. Cover with film. Seeds germinate within 10 - 20 days. Can be planted outdoors when the soil temperature has reached at least 18°C. Stevia is a perennial plant, but it cannot survive our winters. It can be grown in a pot and kept outside during summer, or grown in a pot and kept indoors all year round.

During the first two months of growth, pinch the tops of the plant every 3 weeks. As a result, the bush will be bushier. Fertilize throughout the plant's growing period. Stevia begins to flower 4 - 5 months after sowing. Stevia leaves can be harvested as needed throughout the growing season.  As soon as flower buds appear, cut the entire plant at the base and hang it upside down for a few days in a warm, dry, ventilated place. We recommend not pinching off the flower buds to delay flowering; if you do so, the leaves will lose their sweet taste. Harvest in the morning, when the sugar content in the plant is highest.