28/07/2023
This is a collage of six images of tea leaves in different stages of processing. Tea processing is the method in which the leaves from the tea plant Camellia sinensis are transformed into the dried leaves for brewing tea. The categories of tea are distinguished by the processing they undergo. ¹
The top image is of fresh tea leaves in a metal sieve. These are the leaves that have been harvested from the tea plant and are ready to be withered. Withering is the first step in tea processing, where the leaves are softened and expel excess water. ²⁴
The middle left image is of dried tea leaves on a brown surface. These are the leaves that have been rolled after withering. Rolling is the second step in tea processing, where the leaves are bruised and twisted to break down their cell walls and release their juices. This helps to start the oxidation process, which affects the color and flavor of the tea. ²³
The middle right image is of tea leaves in a glass jar. These are the leaves that have been oxidized after rolling. Oxidation is the third step in tea processing, where the leaves are exposed to oxygen and undergo chemical reactions that change their aroma and taste. The level of oxidation determines the type of tea, such as green, oolong, or black. ²³
The bottom left image is of tea leaves in a glass cup. These are the leaves that have been dried after oxidation. Drying is the fourth and final step in tea processing, where the leaves are heated to stop the oxidation process and remove any remaining moisture. This preserves the tea and makes it ready for storage or consumption. ²³
The bottom right image is of tea leaves in a metal spoon. These are the same dried leaves as in the bottom left image, but shown in a different way. The spoon can be used to measure the amount of tea leaves needed for brewing.
The background of all images is of tea plants. These are the plants that produce the tea leaves. They belong to the genus Camellia and the species sinensis, which means "Chinese camellia". They are native to East Asia and can grow up to 15 meters tall in the wild, but are usually pruned to a shorter height for cultivation. ¹
I hope this helps you understand what this collage is about. Do you like drinking tea? 😊
