When is the best time to sow oil tea?

Tea tree sowing time

Camellia oleifera, also known as tea tree, is widely planted in the Yangtze River Basin and southern China. It prefers warm areas but is afraid of cold weather. The best average annual temperature is between 16-18℃. It usually blooms and bears fruit 3-5 years after planting.

Oil tea seeds are generally sown in winter and spring. The specific months depend on the local soil and climate. Generally, most areas can be sown in spring when the temperature and soil are suitable. However, for some areas in the south, the temperature for sowing can be reached in winter and the land will not freeze, so sowing in winter can also be chosen.

Camellia oleifera sowing method

1. Soil: Camellia oleifera is generally a relatively easy plant to grow. It does not have high requirements for soil quality. It only needs to be loose, fertile and acidic soil.

2. Water: Camellia oleifera has slightly higher requirements for water, which is fully reflected in its vigorous growth period. Sufficient water is necessary to promote its better growth, but be careful not to overdose, otherwise it will affect its growth.

3. Nutrients: Oil tea needs to be fertilized frequently during its growth period. Generally, nitrogen fertilizer is used to provide the plant with more sufficient nutrients and enable it to grow more robustly.

4. Light: Oil tea needs sufficient light during maintenance, and it is best to expose it to light all day long. If it does not absorb enough light, it will cause the branches and leaves to grow more, but produce few fruits.

Camellia oleifera harvest

Oil tea generally matures in late autumn and early winter, with flowers blooming in October and November, and the latest ones may still bloom in December. It matures before March of the next year. The specific time of maturity depends on the variety. Different varieties have different maturity periods.