How to Grow Stevia Plant in Pot

Stevia plant, also known as sweet leaf or sugar leaf, is a popular plant used in many parts of the world as a sweetener. The plant is indigenous to South America and has been used for over thousand years. It is an excellent source of zero-calorie sweeteners, making it a healthy alternative to artificial sweeteners. While the plant can be grown easily in a garden, it can also be grown in pots or containers indoors. Here is how to grow stevia plant in pots:

1. Choose the Right Container

The first step is to choose the right container or pot. Stevia plants have long roots, and they require deep pots or containers. A container that can hold roughly 4-5 gallons of soil is ideal. Make sure the container has proper drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. You can use plastic or ceramic pots, but whichever one you choose, make sure it is sturdy and won't break easily.

2. Soil and Fertilizer

Stevia plants require well-draining soil that is rich in organic nutrients. You can use a mixture of potting soil, compost, and peat moss. The compost and peat moss help to increase the soil's fertility and retain moisture. You can also add fish emulsion or organic fertilizer to the soil before planting. Fertilize the plant once every two weeks to promote growth.

3. Plant the Stevia

Plant the stevia plant in the prepared pot or container. Make sure to leave enough space between the plants if you plan to grow more than one in the same container. Stevia plants do not require a lot of space, but they need adequate sunlight to grow. Place the container in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

4. Pruning and Harvesting

Stevia plants grow up to 3 feet tall, and they tend to become leggy if not pruned regularly. Prune the plant to encourage bushier growth and a stronger root system. Harvest the leaves once the plant has matured, and the leaves turn green. Cut the leaves, leaving the stem intact, and dry them in the sun or indoors until they become brittle. You can ground the leaves to use as a natural sweetener in your tea or coffee.

5. Care and Maintenance

Stevia plants require little care and maintenance. Keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Use a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks to promote healthy growth. Protect the plant from extreme temperatures, especially during winter, by moving it to a warmer area indoors. Increase the plant's room temperature during summer to promote growth.

Finally, growing stevia plant in a pot or container is an easy task that requires little maintenance. By following the above steps, you can have a thriving plant that produces natural, zero-calorie sweeteners for your beverages and meals.