Growing the sugar plant herb, also known as stevia, is becoming popular in Indian kitchens. For diabetics, health-conscious people, or anyone trying to cut back on sugar, it offers a natural, calorie-free substitute. Stevia is flexible and utilised in various Indian foods; it is not only for teas and beverages. It can be included in curries, chutneys, and even sweet Indian treats like halwa or kheer. Any kitchen garden would benefit much from the herb as it sweetens food without adding extra calories.
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Stevia is also easy to grow, especially in India's warm climate. You can grow it in containers even if you live in urban or suburban areas with limited space. Container gardening is becoming a preferred option for short-spaced gardens, and stevia thrives well in pots. Its adaptability makes it an ideal herb to grow at home, whether in a balcony garden or a small backyard. Let’s look at some easy tips to grow sugar plant herbs in your home garden.
Tips To Grow Sugar Plant Herb In Your Home Garden
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Choosing The Right Planting Time
Stevia prefers warm weather, so planting it after the frost season is important. The plant should be placed in the soil once all chances of frost have passed. This timing ensures that the herb gets the right amount of warmth to grow strong and healthy. Early spring is ideal for planting as the temperatures begin to rise.
Ideal Space And Container Selection
When planting stevia in the ground, space the plants 18 inches apart to give them enough room. For those opting for container gardening, use 12-inch pots. Stevia likes loose, well-drained soil, which promotes correct root development. Good drainage in container plants helps to prevent root rot. For small areas, this makes stevia a sensible option.
Soil Quality And pH Levels
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Stevia thrives in rich and loamy, well-drained soil. The soil should have a pH level between 6.7 and 7.2 for the best results. If the soil in your garden is not ideal, it can be improved by mixing compost or organic matter. In container gardens, use a high-quality organic soil mix. Mulching can help retain moisture during hot days and prevent the plant from drying out.
Watering Needs
Watering stevia properly is crucial for its growth. While the herb loves sunlight, it dislikes soggy soil. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue for stevia plants. Make sure the container or garden bed has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Feeding The Plant
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Stevia requires regular feeding to produce healthy leaves. Use a water-soluble plant food rich in nutrients to support its growth. Regular feeding ensures that the leaves grow lush and plentiful, which is the main part of the plant used for sweetening. In addition to feeding, mulch the soil to maintain moisture and support overall health.
Harvesting Stevia Leaves
Stevia leaves reach their peak sweetness during the cool autumn months. This is the best time to harvest them. The leaves should be harvested just before the plant starts to bloom, as they are sweetest at this stage.
To harvest, cut the whole stems, strip the leaves and tender stem tips. Dry the leaves in the sun or use a food dehydrator. Dried leaves can be stored in an airtight container for future use.
Storing And Using Dried Leaves
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Once dried, stevia leaves can be crushed by hand or powdered in a food processor. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. While powdered leaves do not dissolve like sugar, they work well for sweetening beverages and food. About 1/8 teaspoon of dried stevia powder is enough to replace one teaspoon of sugar in your recipes.
Pest Control And Troubleshooting
One of the benefits of growing stevia is that it attracts few pests. However, the plant can suffer from root rot if the soil is too wet. Make sure the plant has good drainage to avoid this issue. A sign of root rot is wilting that doesn’t recover even after watering. Regular checks and balanced watering will keep the plant healthy.
Growing stevia is an easy and rewarding addition to any home garden. Its natural sweetness makes it a great sugar substitute for health-conscious individuals. Whether in a small urban space or a suburban garden, stevia is versatile and adaptable. With the right soil, sunlight, and watering practices, this herb can thrive and provide a sustainable source of sweetness. Grow your stevia for fresh and dried leaves that you can use all year round.