Sowing window (UK)March to April
Minimum soil temperature15°C at seed depth
Spacing25 cm apart
Days to germination14 days
Days to harvest90 days
Sowing methodStart under cover, transplant out
Frost hardyNo
Sunfull-sun
Wateringmoderate
Plant familyAsteraceae

When should I sow Stevia in the UK?

In the UK, sow Stevia from March to April. It is normally started under cover and transplanted. Wait until the soil has reached 15°C at seed depth rather than going by the calendar - stevia will sit and rot in cold ground.

What soil temperature does Stevia need to germinate?

Stevia needs a minimum soil temperature of 15°C at seed depth to germinate reliably. Below that, germination is slow and patchy, and seed is more likely to rot than sprout. Measure at around 5cm down, in the morning, rather than trusting air temperature.

How deep and how far apart should I sow Stevia?

For Stevia, space plants 25cm apart.

How long does Stevia take to grow?

Stevia takes roughly 90 days from sowing to harvest. Seed usually germinates in about 14 days.

Is Stevia frost hardy?

No. Stevia is not frost hardy. Do not put it outside until the risk of frost has passed in your area, and be ready to fleece it if a late frost is forecast.

Sowing data cross-checked against RHS growing guides and UK seed-merchant catalogues. Soil temperatures are the minimum for reliable germination, measured at seed depth.