How Is Tea Grown?
Tea has been a popular global beverage for centuries, but how is it grown? Growing tea is a complex and intricate process that needs to be carried out with care and precision.
Types of Tea Plants
In order to understand how tea is grown, it is important to understand some of the different varieties of tea plants. Tea plants are either grown in the open field or in a shade house. The three basic types of tea plants are:
- Camellia Sinensis: This is the true tea plant species, which can vary in appearance depending on its growing conditions. This plant is grown in many tea-producing countries around the world.
- Camellia Assamica: This species of tea plant is native to the Assam region in India, and produces a strong black tea.
- Camellia Assamica var. Wuyi: This species is native to the Wuyi Mountains in China, and produces a mellow and fragrant black tea.
Tea Plantation Cultivation
Once the type of tea plant is determined, the tea plantation needs to be cultivated. Tea plantation cultivation requires an investment of time, care, and skill. The tea plants must be carefully planted and monitored, and the growing conditions must be maintained to ensure optimal tea production.
The tea plants must be regularly pruned and monitored for signs of pests and diseases. The plantation will also need to be kept free of weeds, as they can compete with the tea plants for nutrients and water.
Harvesting Tea
Once the plants are mature and ready to be harvested, it is time to begin the harvesting process. The tea leaves must be carefully plucked and sorted, and only the youngest and most tender leaves should be used for the highest-quality teas.
The harvested leaves are then either processed by hand or machine. This process involves withering, rolling, oxidation, and drying to remove moisture from the tea leaves and develop the desired flavor and aroma. Finally, the tea leaves are sorted and graded according to quality.
Conclusion
Tea is a beloved beverage around the world, and growing and producing tea is a complex and important process. From selecting the right tea plants to carefully harvesting the leaves, each step requires skill, expertise, and attention to detail.
