Sustainable agronomic strategies and experimental design for Stevia cultivation in the high mountains region of Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Abstract Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni represents a sustainable alternative to conventional sweeteners due to its short growth cycle, low environmental impact, and potential for cultivation in diverse ecological regions. This study evaluated the growth performance of Stevia seedlings under controlled temperature and humidity conditions in the high mountain region of Veracruz, Mexico. A 22 factorial experimental design was implemented to assess the effect of these variables on stem elongation, width, and leaf development. Results indicated that humidity had the most significant influence on plant growth, with optimal development observed under high humidity conditions (R²>0.85). Additionally, the application of Azadirachta indica (Neem) as a bioinsecticide demonstrated effective pest control without compromising seedling vigor, supporting its use as part of sustainable crop management. The findings highlight the potential of Stevia cultivation as a strategy for agroecological diversification and climate-resilient agriculture in Mexico. Future research should incorporate variables such as nutrient supplementation, light intensity, and microbial interactions to enhance predictive growth models and improve cultivation practices.