How To Grow A Delicious Cup of Black Tea
Cultivating a flavorful, aromatic cup of black tea doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Here are some steps to get you started:
Before You Plant the Seeds
- Choose the Correct Variety – There are several varieties of Camellia sinensis sinensis that are used for growing and producing black tea. A few of the most famous are Formosan Butterfly, Tregothnan’s Origin, Red Tinderet, Black Ceylon, and Assam.
- Decide Where You Will Plant – tea bushes can be grown in any climate that is sunny and has rain. The optimum temperature ranges between 18-27℃ (65-80℉).
- Prepare the Soil – For your tea plants to thrive, you’ll want an organically rich soil that is well-draining. Add compost and aged manure to improve the soil quality and allow for better water absorption.
Planting the Seeds
- Dig Holes – Dig holes slightly larger than the size of the roots of the plants. Aim for approximately 2.5 meters apart for each hole.
- Plant the Seeds and Water – Once you’ve selected the correct variety, gently loosen the soil at the bottom of each hole and carefully place the seeds. Gently cover the seeds with soil and water them well.
- Mulch – Once the plants are a couple of centimeters tall, add a layer of mulch to the top. This will help retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
Harvesting and Processing
- Wait and Monitor – After three to four months of growing, the tea leaf buds will turn a reddish color. This is when they are ready to be harvested.
- Harvest and Dry – Gather the tea leaves into bundles and dry them quickly, usually in the sun. After drying, process the leaves by rolling, oxidation, sifting and shaping.
- Brew the Tea – Finally, steep the tea leaves in hot water to make your delicious cup of black tea.
By following the steps above, you’ll have a scrumptious cup of black tea in no time. It’s worth the effort – and you never know, you might just find yourself hooked on a passion for growing and brewing your own tea.
