Stevia

Stevia – Stevia rebaundiana Bertoni 

Varieties – Black seeds, tan seeds

Total duration of crop – Stevia is a perennial crop.

Soil and Climate –

This plant cannot tolerate saline soils or waterlogging. It grows best in red laterite or calcareous soils that are rich in organic matter, well-drained, and slightly acidic with a pH of 4–5. A subtropical climate is ideal for its growth. Warm days combined with moderately humid conditions help the plant grow faster.

 

Cultivation –

Planting is usually done at the beginning of the monsoon (June–July). This period is preferred because the plant develops higher levels of glycosides when exposed to longer daylight hours.

 

Fertilizer –

Good fertilization is important for achieving better yields. Around 8–10 tonnes of compost or FYM are added during field preparation. Additional nutrients like NPK fertilizers are applied in split doses. A mixture containing dolomitic lime, urea, and hydrated lime may also be used to improve soil nutrition.

 

Irrigation –

This crop prefers continuous moisture and does not perform well in dry conditions. Regular watering is required, but care should be taken to avoid over-irrigation or standing water, as both can harm the plant.

 

Harvesting –

The plant begins to flower about 2–3 months after transplanting. The best time to harvest is just before flowering, when the active compounds in the leaves are at their highest levels. Plants are cut near the base, leaving 10–15 cm of stem so they can regrow. After each harvest, the crop is given a top dressing of nitrogen and irrigated again. This cycle can be repeated every 45 days, allowing multiple harvests for up to three years.
The harvested plants are shade-dried for 3–4 days, after which the leaves are separated and used for making powder.

 

Yield –

Depending on how many times the leaves are harvested (usually 3 to 6 times a year), the crop can produce 2,000–4,000 kg of leaves annually.

Benefits of Stevia –

• Natural Low-Calorie Sweetener
• Supports Weight Management
• Helps Manage Blood Sugar Levels
• Good for Dental Health
• May Help Regulate Blood Pressure
• Antioxidant Properties
• Suitable for People with Dietary Restrictions
• Supports Digestive Health