Agro technology for Stevia  (Stevia rebaudiana). ii.Production of steviosides and rebaudiosides through processing of dried leaves o f stevia.

Steviosides are used for preparation of pharmaceutical products (helpful for hypoglycemia and diabetes), for flavour enhancer, in food and beverage application as a replacement for sugar and artificial sweeteners, in herbal tea etc. Steviosides are 250- 300 times sweetener than sugar. 

Grown as a perennial in subtropical and mild temperate regions but must be grown as an annual in mid and high altitude. Has been introduced in HP, J&K, Punjab, Harayana, UP, Uttranchal, MP, Karnatka, TN etc.

Average maximum and minimum temperature between 10^oC – 37^oC during the active crop growth period. Relative humidity ranging from 65 – 85 %. Stevia can grow tolerate rains but is prone to frost. Thrives best in well drained red soil and sandy loam soil with a pH ranging from 5.5- 7.7.

Through stem cuttings as well as through seeds. Transplanted rooted cuttings give better results. Rooted cuttings of 4- 5 weeks old  are transplanted in the field during March- April and June- July at spacing of 45 cm x 45 cm.

Frequent irrigation after transplanting and then at weekly interval. Fertilized through organic manures by applying 25- 30 ton/ha FYM at the time of field preparation. First harvest taken 75- 90 days after transplanting and subsequent harvests after 60- 75 days of the first harvest   Economic life: 3-4 yr.

 Average fresh biomass yield of 25 – 30 ton/ha/yr from two harvests gives 13- 16 q/ha dried leaf yild

Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology,Post Box No. 6 Palampur (H.P.) 176061 INDIA Tel: +91-1894-230742-43 Fax: +91-1894-230433
E-mail: director@ihbt.res.in