What two-step process defines the Colonial Technique used to alter the flavor profile of New Jersey Tea leaves?

Preparing a decoction by boiling leaves and small twigs, and then dipping the fresh leaves intended for tea into this hot liquid before shade drying.

The Colonial Technique was rumored to be an effort to mimic the flavor complexity of imported teas by inducing a mild fermentation in the domestic leaves. This technique involves a distinct, multi-stage approach after initial gathering. First, a decoction is prepared by boiling a quantity of both leaves and small twigs in water. Second, the fresh leaves designated for eventual tea use are momentarily dipped into this hot decoction. Following this dip, these leaves are then allowed to dry completely in the shade. This process was believed to cause the leaves to ferment slightly, thereby contributing to the specific historical flavor sought by the colonists.