There’s no denying Church wouldn’t run quite as efficiently without the humble cuppa! We recycle materials to give them a new purpose including composting tea bags and coffee grounds.
Gardening
I tear the bags open to air dry the used tea leaves which are eco-friendly and biodegradable. The leaves contain various elements that effect plants and tea contains tannic acid to enrich the soil and deter pests, I’ve already noticed fewer slugs in 4 weeks and my plants are thriving.
![](https://sash.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_20240516_163005-768x1024.jpg)
If you have little or no outdoor space, try planting your seeds in the tea leaves if you don’t have soil. Mulch the leaves to give a loose covering and spread across the soil.
![](https://sash.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/IMG_20240516_181155-scaled.jpg)
Crafting
For example, dyeing materials: simmer the used leaves in water to give a natural dye for wood stain, paper or fabrics. Simply boil used tea leaves and strain the liquid and use as a dye.
Happy gardening and crafting!
Jasmine