How to Grow Tea Leaves

Yes, you can grow and harvest tea leaves almost anywhere that you can grow a garden. If you drink tea, and you are a gardener, it is an absolute match. As a “Tea Toteler” you know there are many varieties to choose from. Once you enjoy the pleasures of growing your own leaves, you then learn about harvesting and drying them. Some people find that proper drying is the most difficult of chores. The final step of course is to sit back and drink it!

Varieties of Tea

There are four types, identified by the method in which they are dried and prepared. And within each type, there are dozens and dozens of varieties.

Black
Green
Oolong
Flavored

Flavored varieties are not a unique type. Flavors, spices, and herbs are added to create these teas. Companies use their imagination to concoct just about every flavor you can imagine.

Medicinal Value of Tea

Since ancient times, people have used teas for a wide range of medicinal uses.

Modern research has given credibility to many of these beliefs and identified more In some cases research is not conclusive. Regardless of the final determination as to its value over time, drink and enjoy because there is no research to suggest that it can hurt you and it just tastes good.

Here are some of the known or suspected medicinal applications:

Avoidance of heart disease
Cancer and tumors
Stomach ailments
Sore throats and colds (often flavored with honey)
Soothing, relaxing

The History of Tea

Tea dates back to ancient Chinese history around 5,000 years ago. Tea is “Steeped” in history in many countries around the world. In the U.S., the Boston Tea party was one of the key events that started the Revolutionary War.

A Reason to Celebrate: National Iced Tea Day

Starting Seeds

Seeds can be direct sown outdoors. But we recommend starting them indoors as the plants have a long growing season, and you can space them properly when transplanting.

How to Grow Tea Plants

There are many varieties of teas. They are easy to grow.

Plants thrive in full sun. They prefer average to rich soils. Regular application of fertilizer will help this plant to grow to its maximum height. Provide sufficient water to keep the soil moist.

You can begin to harvest leaves as soon as there are a few dozen leaves on the plant. They can be used fresh or dried. To dry tea leaves, wash them off in cool water. Pat dry with a paper towel. Next, spread the leaves out to dry in a cool and ventilated area.

Important: Do not store dried leaves until you are certain that they are completely dried.

Also, see:

Plant Problems

Soil Temperatures – Ideal germination temperature by vegetable

Ideal Soil pH – by vegetable