When to Plant Stevia in Kentucky

Growing Stevia in Kentucky: Complete Guide

Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana) is a warm-season crop that needs a head start indoors before Kentucky's last frost. Most Kentucky gardeners begin seeds indoors around Thursday, February 4, 2027 and move transplants outside around Thursday, April 29, 2027, after the risk of frost has passed.

Because Kentucky stretches across 4 USDA hardiness zones (6a, 6b, 7a, 7b), planting windows can shift by as much as two to four weeks from one end of the state to the other. Gardeners in the warmer southern zones can start earlier, while those in cooler northern zones should wait until the zone table above shows their last frost has passed.

With 90 days to maturity, Stevia needs the indoor head start that Kentucky's growing season requires. Starting indoors ensures you have strong transplants ready the moment outdoor conditions are right.

Stevia requires full sun (6-8 hours) and moderate (consistent moisture) moisture. Southeastern summers are hot and humid; mulch heavily to retain moisture and shade roots during peak heat.

For the most precise planting dates tailored to your exact location, enter your ZIP code on our planting calendar or use the zone table above to find the schedule for your area of Kentucky.