After Assam, Darjeeling now bracing for poor rainfall
According to the Darjeeling Tea Association, the next few days will be crucial for first flush teas in Darjeeling, India. First flush teas are typically harvested in April and rely on proper distribution of rainfall. The crops require about 2-3 inches of rain each month to ensure an optimum yield. This year however, the region got its first rain in February, following dry conditions since October 2012, and there has hardly been any rain since. This may have an impact on the quality and the output of highly prized first flush tea, half of which is destined for export markets in Germany, the US, Japan and beyond. Officials in the region of Assam issued a similar warning just a few days ago.