Now let’s see how the methods of growing and maintaining tobacco leaves are? Tobacco is a plant whose leaves are used after processing for various purposes such as cigarettes and hookah. This plant belongs to the Solanaceae family and is native to South America.
From the 16th century, loose leaf tobacco was gradually introduced to Europe and then to other parts of the world. Consumption of tobacco in different forms such as mini strips tobacco has played an important role in the culture and economy of many countries throughout history. Beverly, Florida, Virginia and Kentucky tobacco are among the most important commercial tobacco cultivars. Each variety has its own characteristics in taste, color and properties of tobacco.
Suitable weather for growing and keeping tobacco leaves
Tobacco plants need a warm and humid climate with an average temperature between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. Tobacco plants are sensitive to wind. They need fertile soil with organic fertilizer and regular irrigation.
Inspect plants regularly for pests and diseases. After germination and after 8 weeks, tobacco seedlings are transplanted. When it reaches the full growth stage, after three to four months, the harvest begins. After that, they are processed and dried in different ways to reach the consumer.
Methods of growing tobacco leaves
Planting and maintaining tobacco plants is done in order to apply the methods of growing and maintaining tobacco leaves. which we briefly explain.
- Preparing the seed bed: The seed bed is prepared by loosening the soil to a depth of 20-25 cm, adding organic matter and chemical fertilizers.
- Planting: Tobacco seeds are placed in the bed at a depth of 1-2 cm and at a distance of 2-3 cm from each other. The seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil.
- Transplanting: Transplant the seedlings to the main ground when they have 2-3 sets of leaves, usually they are transferred to the main ground after 8 weeks. They are placed 30-60 cm apart.
- Soil fertilization: Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are applied according to the soil test results.
- Watering: Plants should be watered regularly, especially in the first weeks after transplanting in order to establish roots and add phosphorus fertilizer.
- Pruning: You should remove the lower and old and worn leaves to have a healthy growth. cause upper leaves to grow.
- Pest and Disease Management: Pest and disease control through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques.
Keeping tobacco leaves
Regarding the methods of growing and keeping tobacco leaves, we will discuss the methods of keeping tobacco leaves.
Leaf priming
Remove lower leaves to promote healthy growth and higher yield to prevent disease
Leaf thinning
Remove weak or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth and yield.
Cut off the stem
Another way to preserve tobacco leaves is to cut the stem. Cut the stem to encourage bushy growth and prevent flowering.
leaf harvesting
Harvest the leaves at the appropriate stage of maturity, usually when they are bright green and slightly flexible. The time to harvest tobacco leaves depends on the type of tobacco species and the planting area. Generally, tobacco leaves are harvested when handling the nicotine level is desirable. At this stage, the leaves are harvested and usually separated by hand before being dried.
to dry
Dry the harvested leaves to remove excess moisture and preserve them for further processing. Various methods are used to dry tobacco leaves, such as hanging, mechanical drying, direct heat, and other methods.
Sorting and grading
Cooked leaves are sorted and graded based on their quality and size.
Summary of methods of growing and keeping tobacco leaves
Here, we have explained the methods of growing and maintaining tobacco leaves. It goes without saying that tobacco has more beneficial effects in addition to smoking and hookah. It is cultivated and maintained.
