On April 20, Grain Rain, 22 Qimen tea seedlings grown from space-mutated seeds have sprouted at Huangshan, marking the successful completion of Anhui's first space-based tea cultivation experiment.

The seeds traveled aboard the Shijian-19 satellite last September as part of China's space breeding program. After their November planting in Qimen's Pingli Industrial Park, the tea group implemented rigorous management practices, monitoring growth conditions 24/7 according to scientific protocols.

"These cosmic sprouts represent both a milestone for Qimen tea and China's innovative 'tech+tea' development model," said Jiang Hong, chairman of Qimen Black Tea Group. The company anticipates additional sprouts before May Day and plans to create a "space tea culture IP," integrating the breeding story into their intangible cultural heritage displays.

The vibrant seedlings, some displaying two leaves with new buds and others growing three tender leaves, will undergo years of observation. Scientists will analyze their growth cycles, pest resistance, and chemical composition to develop new varieties combining Qimen's signature aroma with space-enhanced qualities.

This project establishes Huangshan as a pioneer in tea science. By blending centuries-old traditions with space-age innovation, Huangshan is set to cultivate the next generation of premium Chinese tea.

Qimen tea seedlings sprout in Huangshan. [Photo/Huangshan Daily]