Tea farming

Tea farming involves growing and processing tea leaves to produce the popular beverage. Originating in China and India, tea farming has spread globally, with major production now in countries like Sri Lanka, Japan, and Kenya. Here’s a quick overview of key aspects of tea farming:

1. Climate and Location

   • Tea thrives in regions with consistent rainfall and temperatures between 10°C and 30°C (50°F - 86°F).
   • Ideal tea-growing areas are often mountainous or high-altitude regions, as the cooler climate and elevation enhance the flavor of tea leaves.
   • Regions like Assam (India), Uji (Japan), and Nuwara Eliya (Sri Lanka) are famous for tea due to their perfect growing conditions.

2. Types of Tea Plants

   • Camellia sinensis var. sinensis: This Chinese variety is generally smaller and produces delicate, mild tea (often green and white).
   • Camellia sinensis var. assamica: This Indian variety is larger and more robust, ideal for black tea.

3. Propagation

   • Tea plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Seed-grown plants take longer to mature but have genetic diversity, while cuttings produce consistent yields.
   • Seedlings are usually started in nurseries before being transplanted to fields.

4. Pruning and Harvesting

   • Pruning helps control the height of tea plants, making it easier to pick leaves and encouraging leaf growth.
   • Tea leaves are picked by hand or machine, typically focusing on the top two leaves and a bud, as these yield the highest quality tea.
   • Harvest times vary by region and can significantly affect flavor, with seasons like spring producing premium quality leaves.

5. Types of Tea Processing

   • The type of processing determines whether the leaves become green, black, white, oolong, or other varieties:
   • Withering: Leaves are spread out to lose moisture.
   • Rolling: The leaves are rolled to release enzymes.
   • Oxidation: Leaves are exposed to air to change flavor and color, with the level of oxidation varying by tea type.
   • Firing/Drying: Heat is applied to stop oxidation and preserve the leaves.

6. Sustainability and Challenges

   • Sustainable tea farming includes organic practices, reducing pesticide use, and protecting local ecosystems.
   • Tea farmers face challenges like climate change, soil degradation, and price volatility, which can impact yields and quality.

Tea farming is labor-intensive, but it produces a drink loved worldwide. The unique blend of climate, care, and processing methods in each region contributes to the variety of flavors and aromas that tea drinkers enjoy.