What to Grow in a Tea Garden [2023]

to grow in a tea garden Growing Teas

Are you a tea enthusiast looking to take your love for tea to the next level? Why not consider growing your own tea garden? Not only will it provide you with an endless supply of fresh and flavorful ingredients, but it will also add beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. In this comprehensive guide, our team at Growing Teas™ will walk you through everything you need to know about what to grow in a tea garden. From popular herbs like mint and lavender to lesser-known flowers like calendula and cornflower, we've got you covered. So grab your gardening gloves and let's get started!

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

What to grow in a tea garden? When planning your tea garden, consider growing a variety of herbs and flowers such as mint, lavender, chamomile, bee balm, lemon balm, lemon verbena, roses, basil, thyme, rosemary, horehound, stevia, ginger, catnip, nasturtium, calendula, cornflower, and red clover. These plants will provide you with a diverse range of flavors and aromas to create your own unique tea blends.

Quick Tips and Facts

  • Choose a sunny location for your tea garden as most herbs and flowers thrive in full sun.
  • Ensure that the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
  • Consider planting your tea garden in containers if you have limited space or poor soil quality.
  • Prune and harvest your herbs regularly to promote healthy growth.
  • Experiment with different combinations of herbs and flowers to create your own signature tea blends.

Why Plant an Herbal Tea Garden?

There are several compelling reasons to plant an herbal tea garden. Here are a few:

  1. Freshness: When you grow your own herbs and flowers, you have access to the freshest ingredients for your tea. This means that you can enjoy the full flavor and aroma of your tea blends.

  2. Variety: By growing your own tea garden, you have the freedom to experiment with different flavors and create unique blends that suit your taste preferences.

  3. Cost savings: Purchasing tea blends from the store can be expensive, especially if you prefer high-quality teas. By growing your own herbs and flowers, you can save money in the long run.

  4. Health benefits: Many herbs and flowers used in tea have medicinal properties and can provide various health benefits. For example, chamomile tea is known for its calming properties, while ginger tea can aid digestion.

  5. Gardening therapy: Gardening is a therapeutic activity that can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Planting and caring for your tea garden can be a rewarding and relaxing experience.

How to Dry Herbs and Flowers for Tea

Drying herbs and flowers is a simple and effective way to preserve their flavors for future use. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to dry herbs and flowers for tea:

  1. Harvest: Choose a dry day to harvest your herbs and flowers. Cut the stems just above a leaf node, leaving enough foliage for the plant to continue growing.

  2. Clean: Remove any dirt or debris from the harvested herbs and flowers by gently rinsing them under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

  3. Bundle: Gather a small bunch of herbs or flowers and tie them together with a string or rubber band. Make sure the bundle is not too thick to allow for proper air circulation.

  4. Hang: Hang the bundles upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the herbs and flowers to lose their color and flavor.

  5. Wait: Allow the herbs and flowers to dry completely. This process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the plant and environmental conditions.

  6. Store: Once the herbs and flowers are dry, remove the leaves or petals from the stems and store them in airtight containers, away from light and moisture. Label each container with the name and date of the dried herb or flower.

Now that you know how to dry herbs and flowers, let's explore the top plants to grow in your tea garden!

1. Mint

Mint is a must-have herb for any tea garden. It is known for its refreshing flavor and soothing properties. Mint leaves can be used to make a variety of teas, including peppermint, spearmint, and chocolate mint. Mint plants are easy to grow and can be invasive, so it's best to plant them in containers or in an area where they can spread freely. Harvest the leaves regularly to promote bushier growth.

"I love growing mint in my tea garden. It adds a refreshing and cooling element to my homemade teas." – Sarah, Tea Enthusiast

2. Lavender

Lavender is not only a beautiful addition to your garden but also a versatile herb for tea. It has a delicate floral flavor with hints of sweetness. Lavender tea is known for its calming effects and is often used to promote relaxation and better sleep. To grow lavender, choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage more blooms.

"Lavender tea is my go-to when I need to unwind after a long day. The aroma alone is incredibly relaxing." – Mark, Tea Enthusiast

3. Chamomile

Chamomile is a classic herb for tea known for its soothing properties. It has a mild, apple-like flavor and is often used to promote relaxation and relieve stress. Chamomile plants are easy to grow and can thrive in various soil conditions. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open and dry them for future use.

"Chamomile tea is my go-to bedtime drink. It helps me relax and unwind before sleep." – Emily, Tea Enthusiast

4. Bee Balm/Bergamot

Bee balm, also known as bergamot, is a vibrant flowering plant that adds color and fragrance to your tea garden. Its leaves and flowers have a citrusy, minty flavor and can be used to make a refreshing herbal tea. Bee balm plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making them a great addition to pollinator gardens.

"I love the vibrant color and citrusy flavor of bee balm tea. It's a real treat for the senses." – Alex, Tea Enthusiast

5. Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a lemon-scented herb that belongs to the mint family. It has a refreshing, citrusy flavor and is often used to make herbal teas and infusions. Lemon balm plants are easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. They prefer partial shade but can also thrive in full sun. Harvest the leaves regularly to encourage bushier growth.

"Lemon balm tea is my go-to when I need a mood boost. The citrusy aroma is invigorating." – Emma, Tea Enthusiast

6. Lemon Verbena

Lemon verbena is a herb with a strong lemon scent and flavor. It is often used to add a citrusy kick to teas and culinary dishes. Lemon verbena plants thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. They can be grown in containers or in the ground. Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

"Lemon verbena tea is like a burst of sunshine in a cup. It's perfect for brightening up my mornings." – Olivia, Tea Enthusiast

7. Roses

Roses are not only a symbol of love and beauty but also a delightful addition to your tea garden. Rose petals can be used to make fragrant and flavorful tea blends. Choose fragrant rose varieties such as Damask or Bourbon roses for the best tea experience. Harvest the petals when they are fully open and dry them for future use.

"Rose tea has a delicate floral flavor that transports me to a peaceful garden every time I take a sip." – Lily, Tea Enthusiast

8. Basil

Basil is a versatile herb that is commonly used in cooking, but it can also be used to make refreshing herbal teas. Sweet basil and holy basil (Tulsi) are popular varieties for tea. Basil plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Pinch off the flowers to encourage the plant to produce more leaves.

"Basil tea has a unique flavor that is both refreshing and aromatic. It's a delightful twist on traditional herbal teas." – Ethan, Tea Enthusiast

9. Thyme

Thyme is a fragrant herb that can add depth and complexity to your tea blends. It has a slightly minty flavor with hints of earthiness. Thyme plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves just before the plant flowers for the best flavor.

"Thyme tea has a unique flavor that is both soothing and invigorating. It's a wonderful herb to have in your tea garden." – Noah, Tea Enthusiast

10. Rosemary

Rosemary is a fragrant herb that is often used in savory dishes, but it can also be used to make herbal teas. It has a distinct pine-like flavor and aroma. Rosemary plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

"Rosemary tea has a unique flavor that is both invigorating and comforting. It's a wonderful herb to have in your tea collection." – Sophia, Tea Enthusiast

11. Horehound

Horehound is a lesser-known herb that is often used to make herbal cough drops and throat lozenges. It has a bitter flavor and is known for its soothing properties. Horehound plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves and stems when the plant is in full bloom and dry them for future use.

"Horehound tea has a unique flavor that is both bitter and soothing. It's a great herbal remedy for coughs and sore throats." – Max, Tea Enthusiast

12. Stevia

Stevia is a natural sweetener that is often used as a sugar substitute in teas and other beverages. It has a sweet, licorice-like flavor. Stevia plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves when the plant is mature and dry them for future use.

"I love using stevia leaves to naturally sweeten my teas. It's a healthier alternative to sugar." – Ava, Tea Enthusiast

13. Ginger

Ginger is a versatile root that adds a spicy kick to teas and other culinary creations. It has a warming and invigorating flavor. Ginger plants prefer partial shade and well-draining soil. Harvest the rhizomes when they are mature and dry them for future use.

"Ginger tea is my go-to when I need a natural energy boost. The spicy flavor is invigorating." – Liam, Tea Enthusiast

14. Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is often associated with cats. However, it can also be used to make a soothing herbal tea for humans. Catnip plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the leaves and flowers when the plant is in full bloom and dry them for future use.

"Catnip tea has a calming effect that helps me relax and unwind after a long day. It's a hidden gem in the world of herbal teas." – Mia, Tea Enthusiast

15. Nasturtium

Nasturtium is a beautiful flowering plant that adds color and a peppery flavor to your tea garden. Its leaves and flowers can be used to make a unique and flavorful herbal tea. Nasturtium plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. They are also great for attracting beneficial insects to your garden.

"Nasturtium tea has a unique flavor that is both peppery and refreshing. It's a delightful addition to my tea collection." – Oliver, Tea Enthusiast

16. Calendula

Calendula, also known as marigold, is a vibrant flowering plant that adds beauty and flavor to your tea garden. Its petals have a slightly tangy flavor and can be used to make a soothing herbal tea. Calendula plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the petals when they are fully open and dry them for future use.

"Calendula tea has a lovely floral flavor that is both soothing and refreshing. It's a wonderful addition to my tea collection." – Lily, Tea Enthusiast

17. Cornflower

Cornflower, also known as bachelor's button, is a beautiful flowering plant that adds a pop of color to your tea garden. Its petals have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and can be used to make a visually stunning herbal tea. Cornflower plants prefer full sun and well-draining soil. Harvest the petals when they are fully open and dry them for future use.

"Cornflower tea has a delicate flavor and a mesmerizing blue color. It's a real treat for the eyes and the taste buds." – Ethan, Tea Enthusiast

18. Red Clover

Red clover is a flowering plant that is often used in traditional herbal medicine. Its flowers can be used to make a mild and slightly sweet herbal tea. Red clover plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open and dry them for future use.

"Red clover tea has a mild and slightly sweet flavor. It's a great addition to my herbal tea collection." – Olivia, Tea Enthusiast

FAQ

Cozy greenhouse

What plants go in a tea garden?

A tea garden can include a wide variety of plants, including herbs and flowers. Some popular plants to consider for your tea garden are mint, lavender, chamomile, bee balm, lemon balm, lemon verbena, roses, basil, thyme, rosemary, horehound, stevia, ginger, catnip, nasturtium, calendula, cornflower, and red clover.

What tea is easy to grow?

Many herbs and flowers are easy to grow and make great additions to a tea garden. Some easy-to-grow teas include mint, chamomile, lemon balm, basil, thyme, rosemary, and lavender.

Which plant gives a good flavor to tea?

Different plants give different flavors to tea. Some plants that give a good flavor to tea include mint (refreshing), lavender (floral), chamomile (mild and apple-like), lemon balm (citrusy), rose (fragrant and floral), and ginger (spicy).

Can you grow a tea garden?

Yes, you can definitely grow a tea garden! With the right selection of herbs and flowers, you can create your own unique tea blends right in your backyard. Whether you have a large garden or a small balcony, there are options available for every space.

Conclusion

Growing your own tea garden is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Not only will it provide you with an abundance of fresh and flavorful ingredients, but it will also add beauty and fragrance to your outdoor space. From the refreshing flavor of mint to the calming effects of chamomile, there are endless possibilities for creating your own unique tea blends. So why not start your tea garden today and embark on a journey of flavor and aroma?

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Can you believe I made this terrarium?! It needs some more love but looks great for now. Crop it up, flip it, and reverse it.

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