Outsidepride Stevia Sweetleaf - 50 Seeds

Stevia Sweetleaf (Stevia Rebaudiana) - Stevia is a sub-tropical frost sensitive perennial herb with leaves 20 - 30 times sweeter than the familiar cane sugar but with low calorie levels. Leaves can be directly applied in hot drinks or made into tea. 3 table spoons fresh leaves or 1 teaspoon powder equals 1 cup of sugar. The stevia herb can sweeten any drink with no calories, no carbohydrates, no tooth decay and is diabetic safe. Stevia nourishes the pancreas and does not raise blood glucose levels, making it not only safe for diabetics but also beneficial. Since there are no calories or carbohydrates, Stevia herbs are an excellent weight loss aid. It does not contains the negative side effects reported with the use of artificial sweeteners including aspartame. Stevia grows on most soils from herb seed, but prefers a sandy loam or loam, high in organic matter. Its native soils are on the acid side, but Stevia tolerates a wide range of soil pH. Stevia requires a consistently moist soil, but not water-logged. Too much soil moisture can cause plant rot. Ideal conditions are most easily provided with raised beds (4-6 inches high and 3 feet wide, with two rows of plants). Moisture is best supplied by a soaker hose such as the "weeping" hoses made from recycled rubber. Mulch is optional, but advisable, especially if a soaker hose is not used. Place the mulch after the weather is consistently warm. Stevia herb prefers partial shade in climates with considerable summer sunshine. Day length is more critical than light intensity. Long spring and summer days favor leaf growth. Short days trigger blossoming.