How to Save Stevia Plants
- 1). Plant your stevia in a pot that is 12 to 14 inches across. The soil should be rich and well draining. They prefer a loamy soil with a lot of compost or organic material.
- 2). Choose a sunny location. Dig a hole with a trowel in the ground when all threats of frost are passed. Place the container in the hole. Make it large enough so the container fits inside, but do not make it any deeper than the rim of the pot. You can leave the rim of the pot showing above ground so it will be easier to lift the pot out when fall comes.
- 3). Water and care for the stevia normally through the summer and early fall months. Stevia likes a moist soil, but not soggy. Keep it outdoors until it is time for frost.
- 4). Dig the pot out of the ground and take indoors at least two weeks before the first expected freeze. Leave the plant indoors for an hour a day. Do this for three or four days. Increase the indoor time by two to three hours for another three or four days.
- 5). When the first freeze arrives, the plant should be ready to spend the winter inside.
- 6). You can safely harvest about half the leaves without harming the plant. Dry the leaves on a windowsill or in a food dehydrator to create your own sweetener.