What is the standard for leaf age when harvesting matcha?

Leaf Age Standards for Matcha Harvesting

Matcha is produced from tencha, a tea leaf specifically cultivated for matcha production. Harvesting follows strict standards to ensure tender leaves rich in amino acids (such as theanine) while minimizing bitterness. The leaf age criteria are as follows:

• Leaf Age Range: Typically 20–30 days, specifically around 20–25 days after the tea plant sprouts.
• Harvesting Position: Primarily the young buds (apical buds) and the first or second tender leaves at the top of the tea plant, harvested during the "one bud and two leaves" or "one bud and one leaf" stage.
• Key Reason: This standard guarantees freshness, high chlorophyll content, and enhanced umami, aroma, and vibrant green color in matcha after covered cultivation (shading).
• Harvesting Season: Mainly during the first harvest (first flush) in spring, typically from April to May, depending on climatic conditions in Japanese growing regions.