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Introduction Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is a fast-growing natural sweetener crop gaining popularity in India due to its high market value, rising demand for sugar substitutes, and suitability for warm climates. It is ideal for farmers seeking a low-maintenance, high-profit crop with strong export potential. 1. Ideal Growing Conditions Climate: Warm, humid; 20–30°C Soil: Well-drained sandy loam; pH 6.5–7.5 Sunlight: Full sun (6–8 hours/day) Spacing: 45 × 45 cm (40,000 plants/acre) Irrigation: Light but frequent; avoid waterlogging 2. Planting & Propagation Best method: Stem cuttings (higher survival & uniform quality) Planting time: Feb–March or Sept–Oct First harvest: 3–4 months after planting Harvesting: Cut stems 10–12 cm above soil 3. Fertilisation Schedule (Acre Basis) Stage Fertiliser Recommendation Basal FYM/Compost: 4–5 tons + 40 kg neem cake Veg. Growth (30–40 days) 25 kg N + 20 kg P + 20 kg K After every harvest 20 kg N + 15 kg P + 15 kg K Micronutrients Foliar spray: Zn, Fe, Mg once/month Use organic manure + light N doses for best stevioside content. 4. Major Pests & Diseases (with Control Measures) Combined Table Pest / Disease Symptoms Control Measures Aphids Curling leaves, sticky honeydew Neem oil 5 ml/l; release ladybird beetles Whiteflies Yellowing leaves, sooty mold Yellow sticky traps; neem 10 ml/l Spider Mites Leaf speckling, fine webbing Spray wettable sulfur 2 g/l; maintain humidity Root Rot (Fungal) Wilting, dark root base Improve drainage; drench Trichoderma 5 g/l Leaf Spot Brown circular spots Copper oxychloride 2.5 g/l spray Powdery Mildew White powdery patches Potassium bicarbonate 5 g/l / sulfur spray 5. Key Management Tips Grow stevia on raised beds to avoid root diseases. Maintain light, frequent irrigation. Remove weeds regularly; stevia is sensitive to competition. Prune plants after every harvest to encourage new shoots. 6. Profit Potential Yield: 2–3 harvests/year; 25