How to Grow Camellia Sinensis
The Camellia sinensis is the source of green, black and oolong tea. The perennial evergreen grows four to six feet. It is native to Southeast Asia but can be grown indoors or outdoors in zones 7-9. It's leaves are dark and shiny green, with the younger ones being a lighter green. The Camellia sinensis blooms a 1 1/2 inch fragrant flower in the fall that is white with a yellow stamen. Patience is needed when growing from seed since it will be three years until harvest. If you can't wait that long you may use a root cutting. The root hairs are very fine and can't be dried out or they will die. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Camellia sinensis seed or cutting
- full sun area
- well-drained slightly acidic soil
- water
- shovel
- acidic fertilizer
Instructions
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Planting
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1
Find a full sun or slightly shaded area. Till the soil. Mix a little sand and organic compost in the soil.
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2
If planting from seeds, soak them overnight in warm water.
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3
Plant the seeds 3/4 inch deep about three feet apart. If using a root cutting, plant five inches deep. Water.
Care
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4
Fertilize every two to three weeks with an acidic fertilizer that is half diluted with water, according to the instructions.
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5
Keep soil moist. Increase watering in the spring until full bloom in the fall. After the fall harvest, cut back on watering. The plant will go dormant in the winter.
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6
Prune back every four years.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The young tender shoots are what is picked for tea. Once picked, dry out and have a delicious cup.
Do not allow cuttings or plants to dry out. They need to be kept moist.
