From the Garden to Cup: An Overview of Tea Growing 

 Tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, consumed by millions of people every day. But how exactly does tea go from a garden to our cup?

In this article, we’ll explore the entire process of growing and harvesting tea – from planting and cultivating to picking and processing – so that you can better appreciate your daily cuppa!

Planting & Cultivating:

The tea plant (Camellia sinensis) is grown primarily in tropical or subtropical climates around the world. It can be planted directly into soil or grown in containers. Once established, it must be regularly pruned, fertilized and watered for optimal growth and health. Depending on where it’s grown, different temperatures and sunlight may cause the tea plant to vary in size and shape.

Harvesting & Picking:

Depending on the region, the tea harvest can occur once or twice a year. During this time, leaves are carefully plucked from the stems of the plant by hand or with machines, ensuring that only quality leaves are chosen. The best teas are usually made from young buds and two leaves plucked together – this is known as ‘two leaves and a bud’.

Processing:

Once harvested, the leaves must be processed quickly to prevent oxidation. Processing involves steaming or pan-firing the leaves to stop oxidation and preserve flavor compounds. Then, depending on what type of tea is being produced (black, green, oolong, etc.), the leaves may be rolled, twisted or shaped into the desired size and form. Finally, they are dried to further halt oxidation and maintain flavor.

Packaging:

After processing is complete, the tea is then ready for packaging. Tea can be packaged in a variety of ways – loose leaf, bagged, powdered or canned – depending on the preference of the manufacturer. From here it’s distributed to stores around the world where customers can purchase their favorite type of tea!

Tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. But few realize the considerable effort it takes to produce a good cup of tea. From its beginnings as a tender leaf growing in the garden to its final resting place in your cup, here’s an overview of how tea grows and gets made.

The Tea Plant:

The primary ingredient in any type of tea is Camellia sinensis, commonly referred to as “tea plant” or “tea tree”. This evergreen shrub is native to parts of Asia and produces leaves that are mostly processed into green, oolong, white, black and pu-erh teas. The tea plant requires specific growing conditions like moderate temperatures and partial shade to thrive. Which is why it’s mostly found in tropical and sub-tropical climates.

Harvesting:

The harvesting of tea leaves typically takes place in the spring and summer months. In China, for example, the most popular types of green tea (like Dragonwell) are harvested around April or May. Depending on the type of tea being produced. Plucking can involve one or two leaves with a bud (the unopened leaf at the tip). Picking by hand ensures only mature leaves are selected and that no damage occurs during harvest.

Tea Processing:

Once harvested, the newly picked tea leaves must be processed quickly to prevent oxidation. The exact processing method used depends on the type of tea being made. For green and white teas, leaves are withered, pan-fried and steamed in order to stop the oxidation process. Oolong teas require more steps like rolling, shaping and drying while black teas must undergo fermentation before they’re roasted or dried.

Brewing:

Finally, we come to brewing! By following a few simple rules (like using freshly boiled water and steep times), you can easily brew a delicious cup of tea from your garden or local grocery store. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

Tea is an ancient beverage that is truly delightful when done right – from its beginnings as a tender leaf growing in the garden to its final resting place in your cup. We hope this overview of tea growing has given you a better understanding of how this wonderful drink is produced and the effort required to make it.