Effect of Drought Stress on Leaf Productivity and Liquor Quality of Tea: A Review

Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze) is a highly valued plant known for its refreshing taste, medicinal properties, and health benefits. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the Theaceae family. The productivity and quality of tea leaves and liquor are strongly influenced by edaphic and environmental factors. However, the cultivation of tea faces significant challenges due to the increasing occurrence of drought associated with global warming and climate change. In this review, we have summarized the potential effects of drought on the growth, productivity, and liquor quality of tea. Drought exerts substantial impacts on the physiological, biochemical, and morphological features of tea plants. For instance, under drought stress, there is a reduction in leaf activity, including chlorophyll production, photosynthetic rate, and CO2 uptake. Drought periods also lead to decreased shoot initiation and extension rates. However, it is important to note that responses to drought can vary depending on factors such as tea variety, cultivar diversity, agricultural management practices, and study techniques. While drought-induced biochemical damage may occur, it is often reversible, and the plant can recover upon rehydration. Irrigation strategies employed during dry periods have been shown to have a significant positive effect on tea yields, making it a promising option for enhancing productivity in drought-prone regions. Furthermore, the cultivation of drought-tolerant tea cultivars, along with the application of micro and macro-nutrients, as well as hormone treatments, can contribute to improving the post-drought recovery process. Studying the influence of drought on tea productivity offers an opportunity for frontier research, aiming to understand the intricate relationship between tea leaf productivity and liquor quality. Additionally, investigating the factors that contribute to stress recovery in tea plants holds promise for enhancing cultivation practices and ensuring the sustainability of tea production in the face of changing climatic conditions.