Stevia, also known as sweetleaf, is a small, perennial shrub. It is a member of the sunflower family and is known for its sweet-tasting leaves. Stevia leaves are about 30 times sweeter than sugar, but they have zero calories and do not raise blood sugar levels.
Stevia plants typically grow to be about 2 to 3 feet tall. They have small, green leaves that are slightly serrated on the edges. The leaves are the sweetest part of the plant and are used to make stevia extract, a natural sweetener that is often used in place of sugar.
Stevia leaves can be harvested at any time of year, but they are typically harvested in the summer or fall when they are at their peak sweetness. To harvest stevia leaves, simply cut them from the plant with scissors. Be careful not to cut the stem, as this can damage the plant.
Once you have harvested the stevia leaves, you can use them fresh or dry them for later use. To dry stevia leaves, simply spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in a warm, dry place. The leaves will be dry within a few days.
Here are some additional tips for harvesting stevia herb:
– Harvest stevia leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
– Avoid harvesting stevia leaves after a heavy rain, as this can make them more susceptible to mold.
– Handle stevia leaves with care to avoid bruising.
– Store stevia leaves in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Germination : 70 %
MRP : 129 TK
Harvesting Stevia for Drying-
To harvest stevia for drying, cut the leaves from the plant when they are at their peak sweetness. This is typically in the late summer or early fall. The leaves should be green and not have any flowers or buds on them.
Once you have harvested the leaves, wash them thoroughly in cool water. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.
There are two main ways to dry stevia leaves: air drying and dehydrating.
Air Drying Stevia Leaves-
To air dry stevia leaves, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet or drying rack. Place the baking sheet or drying rack in a warm, dry place out of direct sunlight. The leaves will be dry within a few days.
Dehydrating Stevia Leaves-
To dehydrate stevia leaves, spread them out in a single layer on the trays of a food dehydrator. Set the dehydrator to a low temperature, such as 115 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius). The leaves will be dry within a few hours.
Once the stevia leaves are dry, crumble them into a powder. You can store the stevia powder in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Harvesting Stevia for Fresh Use-
To harvest stevia for fresh use, cut the leaves from the plant when you need them. The leaves should be green and not have any flowers or buds on them.
Once you have harvested the leaves, wash them thoroughly in cool water. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.
Fresh stevia leaves can be used to sweeten tea, coffee, smoothies, and other beverages. They can also be used to bake with, but they will not rise like sugar does.
