This is similar to my strategy. I want about 50/50 big chunk to whole single leaf ratio, so I skim through the free material but only use whole leaves to make up half. Apparently it's broken leaves that increase leached bitterness and astringency, so I try my best to not break any leaves and end up with 50/50 chunk to leaf. The loose stuff makes the tea get rolling after a quick rinse or two, and the chunks hold it up over time.swordofmytriumph wrote: ↑Thu Feb 21, 2019 6:33 amUsually I pick out the bigger pieces of debris and toss the smaller bits and the dust.
You toss the bits, though? I throw mine all in a ziplock to use for iced tea.