Growing Tea At Home – A Realistic Possibility
Yes, it’s true – you can actually grow tea at home. Not only can you do it, but growing your own tea is a very rewarding and enjoyable experience. With the right knowledge and the right tools, you can plant a delightful variety of tea plants that will provide you with the perfect cup of tea.
Planting Tea Plants
Tea plants are shrubs that are native to subtropical and tropical environments. There are many species of tea plants, but two of the most common ones grown at home are:
- Camellia Sinensis
- Camellia Assamica
These plants thrive in full sun, loamy soil, and well-drained mulch. The best way to keep them happy is to provide them with a humid environment and plenty of water.
Harvesting Your Tea
Depending on the climate, tea plants typically take two to three years before they are ready to be harvested. When the leaves are ready to be picked, pluck only the youngest leaves and buds for the freshest flavor.
Processing The Tea
Once you have harvested your tea, it must be properly processed in order to maintain its freshness. Processing the tea involves drying, rolling, and fermenting the leaves. After the tea leaves have been dried and rolled, they must be left to ferment in a cool and dark place for a period of time.
Enjoying Your Fresh Cup of Tea
Once your tea has been processed and fermented, it is ready to brew and enjoy. Your homemade tea is best enjoyed as soon as possible after harvesting as it loses freshness over time.
Growing your own tea at home is a rewarding and enjoyable experience you won’t soon forget. With the right knowledge and the right tools, you too can be a proud tea grower!
