Tea plants require at least 60 inches (1524 mm) of water per year to thrive.
While tea plants are thirsty, consistent and adequate rainfall is crucial. However, one of the most vital aspects of tea cultivation is ensuring good drainage. Let's break down why:
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Sufficient Rainfall is Key: Tea plants need a good amount of water to support their growth and leaf production. The 60-inch baseline ensures they get enough.
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Drainage is Equally Important: Despite their love for water, tea plants hate sitting in it. Waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases that can damage or even kill the plants.
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Ideal Growing Conditions: To prevent waterlogging, tea plantations are often located on slopes or utilize soil with excellent drainage properties, like sandy or rocky soil. This allows excess water to drain away quickly, while still retaining enough moisture for the roots.
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Watering Techniques: In drier climates, irrigation systems may be necessary to supplement rainfall and ensure tea plants receive the water they need.
Therefore, it's not just the amount of water but also how well the water drains that determines the success of tea cultivation.
