Discover the Surprising Benefits of Tea for Your Garden

Tea and gardening. Yes, you read that right – tea isn’t just for sipping; it can also work wonders in your garden! From enhancing soil health to warding off pests, tea leaves are jam-packed with tons of benefits that will help your plants thrive.

Tea, particularly used tea leaves, are very beneficial to your garden.  Here are some of their uses:

• Compost - Tea leaves are naturally acidic.  When combined with other organic materials in your compost pile, they will help speed up the composting process.
• Natural Fertilizer - You can use brewed tea or tea leaves as a natural fertilizer. Tea leaves release nitrogen which helps balance carbon-rich materials already in the soil.  It can also lower the soil's PH, making it more acidic (ideal for roses and blueberries!)  Added bonus - tea leaves provide a good food source for earthworms who help fertilize your soil too.
• Natural Pest Repellent - Weak tea or tea leaves can deter pests from the garden when you bury them around you plants.  Fun fact - Cats can't stand the smell of tea!  So not only do the tea leaves keep away pesky insects, it will keep yours (or the neighbour's) cats away too!
• Help Plants Retain Water - Tea leaves help improve the soil's ability to absorb and retain moisture.  Many pro gardeners bury tea leaves around the roots of their plants which helps the plant retain more moisture and you don't have to worry about watering as often.
• Reduce Waste - By recycling your tea leaves, you not only get 'free' fertilizer, pest repellent and help with plant watering, you are also keeping them out of landfills and doing your part for the planet.

Use tea leaves in moderation, as too much can alter the soil’s acidity and potentially harm plants that prefer neutral or alkaline soil. Ensure that any tea bags used are free of plastic and are compostable to avoid pollution.

In the world of gardening, sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. Tea, with its numerous benefits for soil health, pest control and composting is one of these simple solutions.  The power of tea in your garden can yield impressive results. So, the next time you enjoy a cup of tea, keep those tea leaves!