Growing Stevia in Zone 8a
Zone 8a has warm winters and an extended growing season — excellent for heat-loving crops like Stevia. Last frost: Apr 5. First frost: Oct 28.
Planting Calendar
Season: Apr 5 – Oct 28 (206 days)
When to Plant Stevia in Zone 8a
Start Seeds Indoors: Feb 8
Start Stevia seeds indoors around Feb 8 (8 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 75°F. Germinates in 7–21 days.
Transplant Outdoors: Apr 19
Transplant Stevia seedlings outdoors after Apr 19. Wait until soil temperature reaches 60°F. Space plants at 12/sqft. Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.
Harvest: Jun 18
First harvest approximately Jun 18 (~60 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Oct 28).
Stevia in Other Zones
1a 1b 2a 2b 3a 3b 4a 4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a 10b 11a 11b 12a 12b 13a 13bFrequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Stevia in Zone 8a?
Start Stevia seeds indoors around Feb 8. Transplant outdoors after Apr 19. Expect first harvest around Jun 18.
What is the last frost date for Zone 8a?
The average last spring frost date for Zone 8a is Apr 5. The first fall frost averages Oct 28, giving a 206-day growing season.
Can I grow Stevia in Zone 8a?
Yes. Stevia needs 60 days to harvest. Zone 8a has a 206-day growing season, which is sufficient.
What is the best month to plant Stevia in Zone 8a?
The best time to start Stevia in Zone 8a is Feb. Begin seeds indoors around Feb 8, then transplant outdoors after the last frost date of Apr 5.
How long does Stevia take to harvest?
Stevia takes approximately 60 days from planting to harvest. In Zone 8a, expect your first harvest around Jun 18.
Plan Your Stevia Garden
Track Stevia from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.
Start Free Stevia Growing Guide