The aging rate of Pu'er Tea is related to the temperature and humidity of its storage environment. In Guangdong, where the temperature and humidity are higher, the samples of tea undergo faster transformation overall. However, after storing the same batch of tea in two different regions for a certain period, there are noticeable differences in sensory quality. In terms of aroma, the tea stored in Xinjiang tends to be purer, leaning towards fruity fragrance in later stages. The samples from Guangdong, on the other hand, develop a certain coarseness and smokiness, with aged fragrance appearing in the later stages of aging. In terms of taste, as the storage time extends, the flavor of the tea stored in Xinjiang transitions from coarse and astringent to rich and mellow. Meanwhile, the tea stored in Guangdong has a pure taste but lacks richness, tending to be lighter.

Of course, this does not mean that the drier the storage environment for Pu'er tea, the better. An overly dry environment will slow down the aging process of the Pu'er tea, and the tea liquor may have a slight dryness to it, so some moisture is necessary. In relatively dry environments, you can place a small Cup of water next to the stored tea to slightly increase the air humidity.
However, an excessively humid environment can cause rapid changes in Pu'er tea, potentially leading to “moldy” changes. Humidity should be controlled artificially, with the annual average humidity not exceeding 75%. Therefore, attention should be paid to timely ventilation to disperse moisture.
Storage Environment for Pu'er Tea
1. Location Selection
The storage location should be able to prevent dampness, pests, and dust, be free from pollution and odors, and maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
2. Air
The conversion of the internal substances in Pu'er tea during storage requires oxygen, so the packaging cannot be airtight. Instead, materials and packaging methods that allow for a small amount of air permeability should be chosen, such as tightly wrapped bamboo baskets or shells. Clean air is one of the critical factors in the formation and maintenance of Pu'er tea's quality. Freshly made Pu'er tea especially needs good ventilation. Since tea is susceptible to absorbing flavors, particular attention should be paid to preventing air pollution both inside and outside the warehouse.

3. Temperature
The storage temperature for Pu'er tea should generally be maintained between 25°C and 30°C, neither too high nor too low. Excessively high temperatures can accelerate the oxidation of the tea, reducing the accumulation of some effective substances and affecting the quality of the Pu'er tea. Conversely, too low temperatures are not conducive to the chemical transformations within the tea.
4. Light
Light can promote the oxidation of plant pigments or esters, with ultraviolet light having a greater impact than visible light. After 24 hours of direct sunlight, the color and taste of Pu'er tea will change significantly, losing its original flavor and freshness. Therefore, Pu'er tea should be stored away from direct light.
5. Humidity
Humidity is a crucial factor in the formation of Pu'er tea's quality. To achieve good quality in Pu'er tea, the average humidity should be controlled below 75%. Therefore, when storing Pu'er tea, humidity should be strictly controlled, and proper ventilation should be provided to disperse excess moisture.

Three Elements for Storing Pu'er Tea
1. Constant Temperature: The temperature at which Pu'er tea is stored should not be too high or too low. It should be based on the local environment without requiring artificial temperature control. A normal indoor temperature is fine, ideally maintaining a range of 20-30°C year-round. Temperatures that are too high will accelerate the fermentation process, causing the tea to become sour. On the other hand, temperatures that are too low are not conducive to the chemical transformations needed. Regardless of the season, Pu'er tea should not be exposed to direct sunlight and should be kept in a cool place.
2. Circulating Air: Circulating air contains more oxygen, which is beneficial for the growth of certain microorganisms and can speed up the changes in the tea. However, Pu'er tea should not be hung outdoors, as this would blow away the tea's aroma and flavor, resulting in a tasteless drink. Adequate air circulation is important, but the tea should not be placed near a draft. Additionally, it is important to ensure there are no surrounding odors, as tea can easily absorb them. Therefore, do not store the tea in areas with household or industrial odors, such as the kitchen.

3. Moderate Humidity: High-quality Pu'er tea emphasizes ‘dry storage,' meaning it should be stored in a dry environment, avoiding dampness. An overly dry environment will slow down the aging process of the tea, so some moisture is necessary. In relatively dry environments, a small cup of water can be placed next to the stored tea to slightly increase the air humidity. However, an excessively humid environment can cause rapid changes in the tea, often leading to “moldy” changes, rendering the tea undrinkable. Humidity should be controlled artificially, with the annual average humidity not exceeding 75%. Due to the warm oceanic climate along coastal areas, humidity can exceed 75% during the plum rain season, so it is important to provide timely ventilation to disperse moisture.