Why are matcha tea gardens shaded?

Why Are Matcha Tea Gardens Shaded?

Shading matcha tea gardens is a crucial step in tea cultivation, primarily aimed at optimizing tea quality to meet the unique flavor and appearance requirements of matcha. Here are the main reasons for shading:

• Increased Chlorophyll Content: Shading reduces direct sunlight, prompting tea plants to produce more chlorophyll. This results in vibrant emerald green leaves, a signature characteristic of matcha.
• Reduced Bitterness: Sunlight promotes the synthesis of polyphenols and caffeine, leading to a bitter taste. Shading lowers these compounds, yielding a sweeter, smoother tea and enhancing the drinking experience.
• Enhanced Amino Acid Levels: Shading facilitates the accumulation of L-theanine (an amino acid), boosting the tea's umami flavor and imparting matcha's distinctive rich taste.
• Protection of Leaf Texture: Shading prevents intense light from scorching tender leaves, maintaining their delicate and juicy texture. This facilitates subsequent processing into fine matcha powder.
• Adherence to Tradition: In matcha production, shading is standard practice, typically conducted 20-30 days before harvest to ensure the leaves meet optimal quality standards.