100 Seeds Stevia Seeds, Alternative to Sugar, 30 - 40 Times Sweeter Than Sugar, Perennial ! Stevia Incredibly sweet leaves are an herbal alternative to sugar. Use fresh, dried, powdered, or as a liquid to sweeten a variety of foods and beverages. Bushy, high-yielding plants. Do not transplant outdoors until low temperatures are above 45F/7C. Hardiness zones: 9-11. Also Know As,Candyleaf, Sugar Leaf, Stevia, Sugarleaf, Sweet Leaf, Sweetleaf Stevia rebaudiana Stevia Sweetie Star (Stevia Rebaudiana) - Stevia is a well-known culinary herb that is used as a sweetener. The leaves are 30 - 40 times sweeter than sugar cane, but with no calories or carbohydrates. The Stevia leaves can be applied directly into drinks or made into tea. The dried leaves can also be ground into powder and used in recipes that call for green Stevia powder. As far as we know, this is the sweetest Stevia herb on the market, and it's grown from Stevia seeds. Stevia is a rewarding plant to grow in the herb garden! It is a tender perennial that is native to subtropical regions. Wild Stevia herb plants often grow on the edges of marches or streams. Stevia can be successfully grown in the herb garden in most any region. It prefers a well-drained sandy loam. Raised beds ensure that the roots do not have too much moisture, and organic compost and regular watering give adequate moisture and nutrients. In colder, northern climates, grow Stevia herb plants as annuals. How To Grow Stevia From Herb Seeds: Start the Stevia seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the last expected frost date. Use a starter mix and gently press the herb seeds into the soil. Lightly cover the Stevia herb seeds with peat moss. Keep Stevia seeds consistently moist by watering from the bottom of the container. A plastic dome or plastic wrap over the tray or containers is helpful in keeping the moisture in. To encourage a bushier growth, pinch back the tips of the plant 2 - 3 times before transplanting outdoors. Transplant outdoors into a prepared bed after danger of frost has passed. If possible, give the Stevia plants some protection from wind. Consistent moisture is important during the summer. Stevia plants can be wintered indoors if given adequate light. A sunny, south facing window or a fluorescent light is needed. Harvest the Stevia leaves when the flavor is the highest which is before flowering or as soon as the blossoms appear. Stems can be cut in the morning after dew has dried, bunched together and hung upside down in a well-ventilated place. Stevia leaves are crisp and bright green when they are fully dry.