Camellia sinensis. Perennial. Open Pollinated. Tea Leaf. This small tree produces excellent yields of green tea leaves. It is a popular tea plant whose seeds are used to grow new plants for the beverage. Tea is the world's most consumed drink. Young leaves are processed to make tea and green tea beverages. It is also used for medicinal purposes. Tea stimulates the central nervous system, acts as a diuretic and astringent, relaxes smooth muscles, and increases coronary flow. It has significant anticancer and antioxidant effects and has even been shown to prevent tooth decay because of its high fluoride content. Can be grown indoors in containers. Excellent choice for home gardens and commercial production. A variety from India.
Seeds Per Pound: 380
Plant Height: 4 to 6 ft tall
Sunlight: Full Sun
Planting Method: Indoor Sow
Planting Instructions
Scarification: Gently rub with fine sandpaper or nick the coat. Seeds should be cracked before planting!
Cold Stratification: Refrigerate for 60 days to improve germination.
Planting Instructions: Soak in hot tap water and let stand for 24 hours. Plant the seed twice as deep as the thickness of the seed, or 1 to 2" deep. Start indoors in plastic containers, then transplant into larger pots as the plant grows. When transplanting into larger pots, use Miracle-Gro Potting Mix. Do not overwater seeds! Keep the potting mix moist, but not too soggy.
Soil Facts: Requires well-prepared soil. Prepare the bed by loosening the soil to a depth of 8–10 inches and mixing in compost or well-rotted manure.
Fertilizer: Use a general-purpose fertilizer when preparing the soil.
Germination: 28-42 days at 70 to 80°F (sometimes longer).
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