Lavender tea is a fragrant and soothing beverage that has been enjoyed for centuries. In addition to its calming properties, lavender tea is believed to have a variety of health benefits, from relieving inflammation to improving digestion. If you’re interested in making your own lavender tea, one of the most important things to know is when to pick the lavender plant. In this article, we’ll discuss the best time to harvest lavender for tea, as well as some tips for making the perfect cup.
When To Pick Lavender For Tea?
Lavender is a perennial plant that typically blooms in mid- to late summer. The best time to pick lavender for tea is just as the buds are beginning to open, but before the flowers are fully open. Depending on where you live and the type of lavender you’re growing, this could be anywhere from late spring to early fall. Here are some tips for identifying the right time to harvest:
Look at the buds: The buds should be fairly tightly closed, but visible. They should be plump and have a good amount of color. If the buds are too small and haven’t developed much color, it’s too early to harvest. If the buds are fully open, you’ve missed your chance.
Sniff the buds: The buds should have a strong, sweet lavender scent. If they don’t smell very strong, or if the scent is more herbal or grassy than floral, it’s probably not the right time to pick.
Check the weather: Lavender blooms are most fragrant on dry, sunny days. If it’s been rainy or overcast, it’s better to wait until the weather clears up before harvesting.
Once you’ve determined that the buds are ready to be picked, you can begin harvesting. To do this, simply use a sharp pair of scissors to snip the stems directly below the buds. Try to harvest on a dry day, and avoid touching the buds too much, as this can bruise them and affect the quality of your tea.
Once you’ve collected your lavender buds, you can start making tea right away, or dry them for later use. To dry lavender, simply tie the stems together in small bunches and hang them upside down in a cool, dry place. Once the buds are completely dry, you can store them in an airtight container for several months.
Making Lavender Tea
Now that you’ve harvested your lavender and dried it, it’s time to make some tea! Here’s a simple recipe for lavender tea:
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 cups water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Directions:
1. Boil 2 cups of water in a pot or kettle.
2. Place 2 tablespoons of dried lavender buds in a tea infuser or muslin bag.
3. Pour the hot water over the lavender buds in a teapot, cup, or mug.
4. Let steep for 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you like your tea.
5. Remove the infuser or muslin bag, and sweeten with honey or sugar if desired.
6. Enjoy your soothing and fragrant lavender tea!
In conclusion, the best time to pick lavender for tea is just as the buds are beginning to open, but before the flowers are fully open. Look for plump, colorful buds with a strong lavender scent, and harvest on a dry, sunny day if possible. Once you’ve collected your buds, you can dry them for later use or start making tea right away. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make the perfect cup of lavender tea every time.
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Last update 2023-03-31. Price and product availability may change.