Russian Sochi Tea

Russian Sochi tea thrives in partial shade to full sun, ideally receiving 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. In hotter climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch and stress. Position the pot in a bright area, such as a partially shaded patio or balcony. Rotate the pot occasionally to ensure even light distribution on all sides of the plant.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged by watering regularly. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. During hot or dry periods, increase watering frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant's growth slows.

Fertilize in early spring and supplement throughout the growing season with occasional light fertilization. As tea is a lover of acidic soil, consider sprinkling a half a teaspoon of unused coffee grounds. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plant.

During winter dormancy, Russian Sochi tea plants experience a slowdown in growth. In colder climates, protect the plant from frost by moving it indoors or to a sheltered area. Reduce watering during this period, but do not let the soil dry out completely. Resume regular care in early spring when new growth begins to emerge.

Harvest tea leaves when they are young and tender, usually in early to mid-spring. The first two to three leaves and the bud are typically the most desirable for tea production. Gently pluck the leaves by hand, ensuring not to damage the plant. The harvested leaves can be processed immediately for green tea or fermented for black tea.

Pests and disease often vary greatly by region. In terms of insects, neem oil can combat many problems. If you are unsure, send us a photo of your plant and the problem, and we'll do our best to identify it and suggest more specific solutions!