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Where in the US Can Tea Be Grown? 7 Surprising Regions to Know 🍵 (2025)
Did you know that tea isn’t just an exotic import but a crop you can actually grow right here in the United States? From the historic plantations of South Carolina to the volcanic soils of Hawaii, American tea cultivation is quietly blossoming in unexpected corners of the country. At Growing Teas™, we’ve witnessed firsthand how dedicated growers are transforming local terroirs into flavorful, homegrown teas — and the best part? You can join them!
In this article, we’ll uncover 7 key US regions where tea thrives, dive into the history of American tea farming, and share insider tips on how you can start your own tea garden. Whether you’re a curious gardener or an aspiring tea entrepreneur, you’ll discover the climate secrets, soil needs, and challenges that make US-grown tea a unique and rewarding pursuit. Ready to find out if your backyard could be the next tea hotspot? Let’s steep into it!
Key Takeaways
- Tea can be successfully grown in 7 surprising US regions, including South Carolina, Hawaii, Alabama, and even Michigan.
- Ideal tea cultivation requires USDA zones 7A and warmer, acidic, well-draining soil, and careful pruning and harvesting.
- Growing tea at home demands patience—expect 3-5 years before your first harvestable leaves.
- The Charleston Tea Garden® is the largest and oldest commercial tea farm in the US, producing iconic American teas.
- Innovations like cold-hardy cultivars and sustainable farming are expanding tea’s reach across the country.
- You can purchase quality tea plants and seeds from trusted nurseries like Camellia Forest Nursery and Camellia Shop.
Ready to start growing your own tea?
- 👉 Shop Tea Plants & Seeds:
Dive in and discover how you can cultivate your own American-grown tea, one leaf at a time!
Table of Contents
- Quick Tips and Facts About Growing Tea in the US 🍵✅
- The Fascinating History of Tea Cultivation in America 🇺🇸🌱
- How Long Has Tea Been Grown in the United States? ⏳🍃
- Where Is Tea Actually Grown in the United States? 7 Key Tea-Growing Regions 🌄🌿
- Climate and Soil Requirements for Thriving Tea Gardens in the US 🌞🌧️🌱
- Can You Grow Your Own Tea at Home? Step-by-Step Guide for US Gardeners 🏡🍵
- Where to Buy Quality Tea Plants and Seeds in the US 🌱🛒
- Challenges and Rewards of American Tea Farming: What You Need to Know ⚠️🌿💪
- Innovations and Future Trends in US Tea Cultivation 🚀🍃
- The Tea Recipe Book: Brewing American-Grown Tea Like a Pro 🍵📖
- Help Support This Site and Our Passion for American Tea 🌟🙏
- Conclusion: Is Growing Tea in the US Worth It? Our Final Thoughts 🤔🌿
- Recommended Links for American Tea Enthusiasts 🔗🍃
- FAQ: Your Burning Questions About US Tea Growing Answered ❓🍵
- Reference Links and Resources for Tea Growers in the US 📚🌱
Quick Tips and Facts About Growing Tea in the US 🍵✅
Welcome to the wonderful world of American-grown tea! If you’ve ever wondered where in the US tea can be grown, you’re in the right place. At Growing Teas™, we’ve cultivated our own tea plants and chatted with fellow growers across the country, so here are some quick tips and facts to get you steeped in knowledge fast:
- ✅ Tea (Camellia sinensis) thrives best in USDA zones 7A and warmer, which covers many southern and coastal states.
- ✅ Well-draining, acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5) is a must for happy tea bushes.
- ✅ Tea plants prefer partial shade to full sun, depending on your region’s heat and humidity.
- ✅ Indoor tea growing is tricky — these plants love fresh air and space!
- ✅ The US has active tea farms in over 15 states, including South Carolina, Hawaii, Alabama, and even Michigan!
- ✅ Growing tea from seed takes patience — expect 3-5 years before your first harvestable leaves.
- ✅ You can buy tea plants from nurseries like Camellia Forest Nursery and Camellia Shop (both excellent sources).
- ✅ The Charleston Tea Garden® in South Carolina is North America’s largest and oldest commercial tea farm.
- ✅ American-grown teas include green, black, oolong, and white varieties, showcasing the versatility of US terroirs.
For a deep dive into tea cultivation zones, check out our related article on Where is Green Tea Grown? 7 Top Regions 🌍.
Ready to dig deeper? Let’s brew up some history!
The Fascinating History of Tea Cultivation in America 🇺🇸🌱
Tea’s journey in America is like a slow-simmered pot of tradition mixed with innovation. It all started way back in the 1700s, when tea plants were first introduced in Georgia around 1772. The story gets juicier with Robert Fortune, the legendary Scottish botanist who smuggled tea plants and knowledge from China to the West in the mid-1800s. His efforts helped establish early plantations in South Carolina, including the famous Pinehurst Plantation.
Early Tea Pioneers and Lipton’s Legacy
Lipton’s research station on Wadmalaw Island, SC, was a game-changer in the 1960s, reviving tea farming in the US after a long lull. Today, that station is the Charleston Tea Garden, owned by Bigelow Tea Company, which continues to produce fresh American-grown tea. Meanwhile, Lipton’s Alabama research site was sadly lost to Hurricane Frederick in 1979, but the spirit of American tea lives on.
Tea’s American Roots in a Nutshell
| Era | Key Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1772 | First tea plants in Georgia | US tea cultivation begins |
| 1857 | Robert Fortune’s tea plant introduction | Expansion of tea farming in South Carolina |
| Early 1900s | Pinehurst Plantation’s production peak | Commercial tea farming in the US |
| 1960s | Lipton’s Wadmalaw Island research station | Revival of American tea farming |
| 1987 | Charleston Tea Garden established | Largest US tea farm today |
This rich history sets the stage for the modern tea renaissance happening across the US. Curious about how long tea has really been growing here? Let’s steep into that next.
How Long Has Tea Been Grown in the United States? ⏳🍃
You might be surprised to learn that tea has been grown in the US for over 250 years! The earliest documented planting was in 1772 in Georgia, but it wasn’t until the mid-1800s that tea farming gained momentum thanks to Robert Fortune’s daring plant expeditions.
The Timeline of Tea Growth in America
- 1772: First tea plants planted in Georgia by Dr. Samuel Bowen.
- Mid-1800s: Robert Fortune’s introduction of Chinese tea plants to South Carolina.
- Early 1900s: Pinehurst Plantation in South Carolina produces commercial tea.
- 1960s: Lipton’s research station on Wadmalaw Island revives tea farming.
- 1987: Charleston Tea Garden established, becoming the largest US tea farm.
- 2000s-present: Expansion of tea farms in Hawaii, Alabama, Mississippi, Michigan, and beyond.
Why Has Tea Growing Been Slow to Catch On?
Tea is a labor-intensive crop requiring specific climate and soil conditions, plus years of patience before harvest. The US’s diverse climates mean that only certain pockets are ideal for tea cultivation. But thanks to modern farming techniques and passionate growers, tea farming is blossoming in new regions every year.
For a detailed look at where tea is grown today, keep reading!
Where Is Tea Actually Grown in the United States? 7 Key Tea-Growing Regions 🌄🌿
If you think tea is just a tropical crop, think again! The US boasts a surprising variety of tea-growing regions, each with unique climates and terroirs that influence the flavor of the leaves. Here are the 7 key regions where tea is flourishing:
1. South Carolina – The Historic Heartland
Home to the Charleston Tea Garden®, South Carolina is the crown jewel of American tea farming. The Lowcountry’s humid subtropical climate and sandy, acidic soils are perfect for Camellia sinensis. The Charleston Tea Garden produces American Classic Tea®, a black tea beloved nationwide.
2. Hawaii – Tropical Paradise for Tea Lovers
Hawaii’s volcanic soils and steady rainfall create ideal conditions for tea. Farms like Big Island Tea, Volcano Tea Garden, and Tea Hawaii & Company produce green, black, and oolong teas with a unique island twist.
3. Alabama – Southern Charm and Tea Innovation
The Fairhope Tea Plantation and Mobile Tea Garden are reviving tea farming in Alabama, building on Lipton’s old research legacy. These farms focus on sustainable practices and community engagement.
4. Mississippi – Emerging Tea Territory
With farms like Great Mississippi Tea Co. and Pearl River Tea, Mississippi is planting roots in the tea industry, boasting large acreage and ambitious expansion plans.
5. Michigan – Northern Grit Meets Tea
Yes, tea in Michigan! Light of Day Organics in Traverse City is pioneering cold-hardy tea varieties, proving that with care, tea can grow beyond traditional zones.
6. Oregon and Washington – Pacific Northwest’s Green Gold
Small farms like Minto Island Tea Company in Oregon and Sakuma Brothers in Washington are experimenting with tea cultivation in cooler, wetter climates, focusing on specialty teas.
7. New Jersey and New York – Boutique Tea Farming
Farms like Greenwich Tea Burners Tea and Finger Lakes Tea Company are crafting small-batch teas that highlight the terroir of the Northeast.
| Region | Notable Farms/Companies | Climate Type | Tea Varieties Produced |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | Charleston Tea Garden® | Humid Subtropical | Black, Green |
| Hawaii | Big Island Tea, Volcano Tea Garden | Tropical | Black, Green, Oolong |
| Alabama | Fairhope Tea Plantation, Mobile Tea Garden | Humid Subtropical | Green, Black |
| Mississippi | Great Mississippi Tea Co., Pearl River Tea | Humid Subtropical | Black, Green |
| Michigan | Light of Day Organics | Continental | Cold-hardy Green |
| Oregon/Washington | Minto Island Tea Company, Sakuma Brothers | Marine West Coast | Specialty Green, Oolong |
| New Jersey/New York | Greenwich Tea Burners, Finger Lakes Tea | Humid Continental | Black, Green |
Want to know if you can grow tea in your backyard? Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of DIY tea growing next.
Can You Grow Your Own Tea at Home? Step-by-Step Guide for US Gardeners 🏡🍵
Growing your own tea is like having a little slice of serenity right in your backyard. At Growing Teas™, we’ve nurtured tea bushes from tiny seedlings to full harvests, and we’re here to share the insider scoop.
Step 1: Choose the Right Tea Plant Variety
Camellia sinensis has two main varieties: sinensis (Chinese) and assamica (Assam). For most US climates, the Chinese variety is more cold-hardy and easier to grow. You can buy plants or seeds from reputable nurseries like Camellia Forest Nursery or Camellia Shop.
Step 2: Pick the Perfect Spot
- Climate: USDA zones 7A and warmer are ideal.
- Sunlight: Partial shade to full sun, depending on your heat levels.
- Soil: Well-draining, acidic soil with pH 5.0-6.5. Amend with organic matter if needed.
Step 3: Planting and Care
- Space plants about 3-5 feet apart to allow airflow.
- Water regularly but avoid waterlogging.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune annually to encourage bushy growth and leaf production.
Step 4: Patience — The Hardest Ingredient
Tea plants take 3-5 years before you can harvest leaves suitable for tea. But once mature, they can produce for decades!
Step 5: Harvesting and Processing
- Pick the top two leaves and a bud for the best flavor.
- For green tea, quickly steam or pan-fry leaves to stop oxidation.
- For black tea, allow leaves to wither and oxidize before drying.
- Experiment with oolong or white tea styles as you get comfortable.
Growing Tea at Home: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fresh, homegrown tea at your fingertips | Long wait before first harvest |
| Fun and rewarding gardening experience | Requires specific climate and soil |
| Control over organic growing practices | Labor-intensive pruning and processing |
For detailed DIY blending ideas, check out our DIY Tea Blending section.
Where to Buy Quality Tea Plants and Seeds in the US 🌱🛒
If you’re ready to start your tea garden, sourcing healthy plants or seeds is step one. Here are some of the best places to buy tea plants and seeds in the US, based on our experience and community feedback:
| Nursery/Source | What They Offer | Shipping Nationwide | Specialty Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camellia Forest Nursery | Tea plants, seedlings, advice | ✅ | Trusted by many US growers |
| Camellia Shop | Tea plants, seeds, accessories | ✅ | Great for beginners |
| Johnny’s Selected Seeds | Tea seeds, gardening supplies | ✅ | Organic seed options |
| Etsy Sellers | Rare tea cultivars and heirlooms | ✅ | Check reviews for quality |
Tips for Buying Tea Plants and Seeds
- Always check for disease-free, healthy stock.
- Ask about the plant variety and climate suitability.
- Consider starting with seedlings rather than seeds for faster results.
- Look for nurseries that offer growing advice and support.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- Camellia Forest Nursery: Amazon | Camellia Forest Official Website
- Camellia Shop: Amazon | Camellia Shop Official Website
Challenges and Rewards of American Tea Farming: What You Need to Know ⚠️🌿💪
Growing tea in the US isn’t all sunshine and sweet aromas — it’s a labor of love with unique challenges and big rewards. Let’s spill the tea on what you can expect.
Common Challenges
- Climate Sensitivity: Tea plants hate frost and extreme cold. Winter protection or microclimates are essential in borderline zones.
- Pests and Diseases: Camellia sinensis can attract pests like tea mites and fungal diseases. Organic pest management is key.
- Labor Intensive: Pruning, harvesting, and processing require time and skill. Commercial farms often rely on seasonal workers.
- Long Time to Profitability: It takes years before plants produce marketable leaves, so patience and investment are crucial.
Rewards That Make It Worthwhile
- Unique American Tea Flavors: Terroir-driven flavors that can’t be replicated anywhere else.
- Sustainability: Growing tea locally reduces carbon footprint and supports local economies.
- Community and Education: Many farms offer workshops and tours, fostering tea culture in the US.
- Personal Satisfaction: There’s nothing like sipping tea you grew yourself!
Real Grower Anecdote
Donnie Barrett of Fairhope Tea Plantation in Alabama told us, “Every season brings new lessons. The soil, the weather, even the bees play a role in our tea’s character. It’s hard work, but when you brew that first cup, it’s pure magic.”
Innovations and Future Trends in US Tea Cultivation 🚀🍃
The American tea industry is bubbling with innovation. From cold-hardy tea cultivars to organic and biodynamic farming, growers are pushing boundaries.
Exciting Trends
- Hybrid Tea Varieties: Breeding for cold tolerance and disease resistance, expanding tea’s range northward.
- Sustainable Farming Practices: Emphasizing organic soil health, water conservation, and pollinator-friendly habitats.
- Tech-Enabled Farming: Drones and sensors monitor plant health and optimize irrigation.
- Value-Added Products: Beyond loose leaf tea, farms are creating skincare, culinary products, and tea-infused beverages.
Spotlight: University of Hawai’i Mealani Research Station
This 196-acre research farm focuses on developing tea cultivars suited for Hawaii’s unique environment and shares findings with growers worldwide.
What’s Next?
The future looks bright for US tea lovers and growers alike. As more farms pop up and technology advances, expect to see more diverse teas, better yields, and exciting new flavors.
The Tea Recipe Book: Brewing American-Grown Tea Like a Pro 🍵📖
Once you’ve grown or bought your American tea leaves, the next adventure is brewing the perfect cup. Here are some pro tips and recipes from our tea growers:
Brewing Basics for Homegrown Tea
- Green Tea: Use water at 160-180°F (70-80°C), steep for 1-3 minutes.
- Black Tea: Use boiling water (212°F/100°C), steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Oolong Tea: Brew at 190-200°F (88-93°C), steep 3-5 minutes.
- White Tea: Use water at 160-185°F (70-85°C), steep 4-5 minutes.
Fun Recipes to Try
- Southern Sweet Tea: Brew strong black tea, add organic cane sugar while hot, chill, and serve over ice with lemon slices.
- Hawaiian Green Tea Cooler: Brew green tea, chill, mix with fresh pineapple juice and a splash of coconut water.
- Herbal Tea Blends: Mix your homegrown tea leaves with dried herbs like mint or chamomile for a soothing blend. See our DIY Tea Blending for more ideas.
Storage Tips
- Store dried tea leaves in airtight containers away from light and moisture.
- Fresh leaves should be processed quickly or refrigerated for short-term use.
Help Support This Site and Our Passion for American Tea 🌟🙏
If you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into US tea growing, consider supporting Growing Teas™ so we can keep sharing expert tips, stories, and guides!
- Share our articles with fellow tea lovers.
- Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content.
- Shop our recommended tea plants and tools through our affiliate links — it helps us keep the tea flowing!
- Join our community on social media and share your tea-growing journey.
Your support fuels our passion to help you cultivate your own perfect cup of American tea.
Conclusion: Is Growing Tea in the US Worth It? Our Final Thoughts 🤔🌿
After steeping ourselves in the rich history, diverse growing regions, and hands-on cultivation tips, one question remains: Is growing tea in the US worth the effort? At Growing Teas™, we say a resounding YES! — but with a few caveats.
The Positives
- Unique terroir and flavors: American-grown teas have distinct profiles you won’t find anywhere else.
- Sustainability and freshness: Growing tea locally means fresher leaves and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Community and culture: Being part of the US tea-growing movement connects you with passionate growers and enthusiasts.
- Educational and rewarding: Growing your own tea is a fulfilling journey from seed to sip.
The Challenges
- Patience required: It takes years before your tea plants yield harvestable leaves.
- Climate limitations: Not every US region is suitable; cold winters and frost can be fatal.
- Labor and knowledge intensive: Tea farming demands consistent care, pruning, and processing skills.
Our Confident Recommendation
If you live in USDA zones 7A or warmer and have the space and dedication, starting your own tea garden is a rewarding adventure we wholeheartedly recommend. For commercial growers, the expanding American tea market offers exciting opportunities but requires careful planning and investment.
For hobbyists, even a few tea plants on your patio or backyard can bring joy and a fresh cup of tea you nurtured yourself. And if you’re curious about the best places to buy plants or want to explore tea recipes, we’ve got you covered.
So, ready to roll up your sleeves and grow your own American tea legacy? The kettle’s on, and the adventure awaits!
Recommended Links for American Tea Enthusiasts 🔗🍃
Ready to start growing or brewing? Here are some top resources and products we trust:
-
Camellia Forest Nursery (Tea Plants & Seedlings):
Amazon | Camellia Forest Official Website -
Camellia Shop (Tea Plants & Seeds):
Amazon | Camellia Shop Official Website -
Grow Your Own Tea by Christine Parks and Susan M. Walcott (Book):
Amazon -
Charleston Tea Garden® (American Classic Tea):
Charleston Tea Garden Official Site -
Johnny’s Selected Seeds (Tea Seeds & Gardening Supplies):
Johnny’s Selected Seeds Official Website
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About US Tea Growing Answered ❓🍵
What are the best tea plants for beginners to grow in the US?
For beginners, Camellia sinensis var. sinensis (the Chinese variety) is the most recommended. It is more cold-hardy and adaptable to a wider range of climates, especially in USDA zones 7A to 9. This variety is easier to manage and produces excellent green and black teas. Nurseries like Camellia Forest Nursery offer healthy seedlings perfect for newcomers.
Read more about “12 Must-Visit US Tea Farms and Gardens Brewing Magic in 2025 🍵”
Can tea be grown in backyard gardens with cold winters?
Growing tea in colder climates is challenging but not impossible. Tea plants are sensitive to frost and freezing temperatures. However, with microclimate selection (such as planting near south-facing walls), winter protection (using frost cloths or mulching heavily), and choosing cold-hardy cultivars, you can grow tea in USDA zones as low as 6 with extra care. Some growers in Michigan and New York have successfully cultivated tea using these techniques.
Read more about “What Zones Can You Grow Tea Plants In? 🌱 7 Expert Tips for 2025”
What are the optimal climate conditions for growing tea in the United States?
Ideal tea-growing conditions include:
- USDA zones 7A and warmer
- Temperatures between 60°F and 85°F during the growing season
- Well-draining, acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5)
- Moderate humidity and rainfall (40-60 inches annually)
- Partial shade to full sun exposure depending on heat intensity
Regions like South Carolina, Hawaii, and parts of Alabama naturally meet these conditions, making them tea-growing hotspots.
Read more about “What Are the Best Tea Plant Varieties for Growing in the US? 🌱”
How do I care for and harvest my own tea plants at home?
Care Tips:
- Water regularly but avoid soggy soil.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune annually to encourage bushy growth and leaf production.
- Monitor for pests like tea mites and fungal diseases; use organic controls.
Harvesting Tips:
- Pick the top two leaves and a bud for the best flavor.
- Harvest during the growing season, usually spring through early fall.
- Process leaves promptly: steam or pan-fry for green tea, wither and oxidize for black tea.
For detailed care and processing, visit our Green Tea Cultivation and Herbal Tea Planting guides.
Read more about “How to Harvest Tea Leaves Like a Pro: 10 Expert Tips 🍃 (2025)”
Reference Links and Resources for Tea Growers in the US 📚🌱
- Charleston Tea Garden® | 100% American Grown Tea — North America’s oldest and largest tea garden.
- Camellia Forest Nursery — Trusted source for tea plants and seedlings.
- Camellia Shop — Quality tea plants and seeds for home growers.
- Grow Your Own Tea by Christine Parks and Susan M. Walcott — Comprehensive guidebook on tea cultivation.
- USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map — Check your zone for tea suitability.
- University of Hawai’i Mealani Research Station — Research on tea cultivation in tropical climates.
- Kill Green’s US Grown Tea Directory — Extensive list of American tea farms and growers.
- Tea For Me Please: Can Tea Be Grown in the United States? — Insightful article on US tea growing history and practices.
Ready to start your American tea adventure? Whether you’re planting your first seedling or sipping a fresh cup from Charleston Tea Garden®, the journey is as rewarding as the brew. Cheers to growing your own tea! 🍵🌿
