How To Grow An Herbal Tea Garden
This is everything you need to know to grow an herbal tea garden in your backyard or even on a small deck.
If you enjoy a hot cup of herbal tea or enjoy gardening, think about planing your own herb garden. In fact, you can plant herbs with the sole purpose of drying them and using them in your own herbal teas.
This guide will show you how to plant your own herb garden. You’ll learn why you should consider growing one, what growing zones are, and what the best herbs to grow for herbal teas are.
Guides to Tea
- Beginner’s Guide to Black Tea
- Beginner’s Guide to Green Tea
- Beginner’s Guide to Herbal Tea
- Beginner’s Guide to White Tea
- Lavender Tea Guide
Why You Should Grow Your Own Herbs
The main reasons that you should grow and dry your own herbs are that fresher is always better and it will save you money (and trips to the store).
When it comes to herbal teas, the fresher the herbs are, the more potent they will be. Even tea bags you buy from the store eventually expire.
If you grow, harvest, and dry out your own herbs, you will know exactly what kinds of pesticides were used (if you used any at all).
Plus, you just can’t beat how convenient it is to have all the herbs you need right on your deck. No more having to drive to the store or worrying about having to use your tea before it expires. Growing your own herbs for herbal tea will save you money and trips to the store.
Know Your Growing Zones
When you grow your own herbs, it’s important that you understand what growing zone you live in. The United States is divided into different plant hardiness zones.
This zone is based on the seasons – when the first freeze is and how hot the weather can become – among other factors.
The zones span from 1a (the northernmost states) to 13b (Hawaii and Puerto Rico).
If you live in a small space with no outdoor area, use these tips for growing an Indoor Tea Garden.
Best Herbs To Grow For Homemade Herbal Tea
Before we look at how to grow herbs for your own herbal tea, let’s look at which plants you should begin to grow.
These are the most popular herbs for herbal tea. They also have the most health benefits. Even better? They are really easy to grow! You don’t have to have a green thumb to grow these plants. Make sure you read about herbal teas for your immune system.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Chamomile grows best in zones 3-9.
Chamomile is known for helping people relax, fight insomnia, and reduce anxiety. It can also help ease upset stomachs.
Mint (Mentha)
Grows best in zones 3-11.
Mint is a fantastic herb to grow because it has so many uses beyond just in tea. For tea, it helps soothe sore throats, improve sleep, and help upset stomachs too.
There are lots of different varieties of mint plants – try different ones and find your favorite. There isn’t one that is healthier or better for tea than another one. It’s all a matter of personal preference.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Grows best in zones 4-9.
Lemon balm is a very refreshing herb for teas. A very popular combination is lemon balm and chamomile.
It has stress-reducing properties, so it’s an excellent tea to drink when you are feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
Grows best in zones 5-9.
Lavender is another herb that is known for having relaxing properties. Not only that, but it’s also anti-inflammatory which means it can help relieve pain too. Plus, the flowers are just so beautiful that you’ll enjoy seeing them bloom.
Echinacea
Grows best in zones 3-9.
This is one of the most versatile and useful herbs you can grow. It can boost your immune system, help you fight off colds and flu, and improve your mood. It has lovely floral blooms that will brighten up your garden.
Hibiscus
Grows best in zones 5-11.
When you are looking at growing hibiscus, make sure you are growing an edible variety. Some of them are just ornamental and you shouldn’t use them in teas.
If you grow the edible hibiscus, you will really enjoy using it in your teas! It has lots of vitamin C in it so it’s great for your immune system. Plus, it helps your body digest foods better and could even help you lower your cholesterol.
Tea Garden Starter Set of Seeds.
Grow Your Tea at Home Kit:
How To Grow An Herbal Tea Garden
Now that you know what you want to grow, let’s look at the best ways to grow them. You don’t even need a backyard to grow your herbs – you can grow them in small containers in your kitchen or an apartment balcony.
Choose The Right Planter
All plants have different needs for their roots and stems. Give them the space they need to grow properly. Ask the nursery attendant where you buy the seeds or plants how much room they need.
In general, plan to either put each herb in their own container. If you are going to put them all in the same area (like your backyard) space them out at least 2 feet apart.
Here are 50 ideas of different DIY planters you can make right in your kitchen. You don’t have to spend a lot to grow herbs in your home.
Give The Plants Sunshine
Place your plants in an area where they will receive plenty of sunshine – but not too much. A good rule to remember is to give them around 6 hours of sunshine a day.
Too much shade could cause your plants not to grow full and healthy.
Water Your Plants Regularly
Don’t forget to give your plants the water they need – you also need to be careful not to overwater them. It is possible to give them too much water.
Each plant is different, so it’s important to look up how much water your herbs need before you plant them.
How To Harvest And Dry Herbs for Herbal Tea
When you are ready to harvest and dry your herbs for your tea, make sure you are harvesting the correct part of the plant. For most herbs, you will use the buds and stems.
The best way to dry out herbs for herbal tea is with a food dehydrator. You can also just pick the stems and buds, make a bouquet, then hang the bouquet upside-down and let them air-dry. Air drying herbs takes longer but is just as effective.
If you use a food dehydrator, space out the herbs so that there is plenty of air circulation.
After the herbs are completely dried. Store them in an airtight container like a mason jar.
Frequently Asked Questions About Herbal Tea Gardens
Are you ready to grow some herbs? Here are some questions people ask. You might have one of these questions too, I hope they help you out.
Where is the best place to plant an herb garden?
The best place to plant an herbal tea garden is where it will receive at least 6 hours of sunlight. Place your planters on a window-sill, deck, or balcony. Just make sure they have access to sunlight and are easy for you to reach when you water them.
What herbs grow well for tea?
Herbs are generally hardy and fantastic plants for beginning gardeners. The best herbs for an herbal tea garden are mint and lavender. They are easy to grow and taste delicious together.
Can you grow your own green tea?
Yes, you can grow your own green tea, as long as you live in a warm climate (zone 8 or warmer). It takes 3 years for tea plants to mature to the point they are ready to be harvested, so you’ll need to be patient.
This book tells you what you need to know to grow your very own tea plants. It’s a very lengthy process, but can be worth it.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! Growing everything you need for your own herbal tea garden is easier than you might think. Before you begin, make a plan. Which herbs do you want to grow? Set up an area – even something as small as the corner of a deck or balcony – and make that your little garden area.
Herbal teas that you grow are healthy for your mind, body, and soul!
