From Planting to Picking

Making great cigars starts with planting great seeds. You will see how the seeds are planted and germinated and how the seedlings are prepared to be planted in the field. The process of harvesting (priming) the leaves is also discussed.

TERMS:

• Ligero = Literally “light.” The part of the filler tobacco that is located in the upper part of the plant. It often contributes to the strength of the cigar.
• Viso = Tobacco from the middle of the plant. A primary contributor to the flavor characteristics of the cigar.
• Seco = Literally, “dry.” Comes from the
  lower part of the plant, it contributes to the aroma and burn of the cigar.
• Volado = Another type of filler tobacco chosen for its burning qualities. It is the part of the plant that is closest to the soil.

• Vega = Tobacco field
• Veguero = Tobacco farmer
• Finca = Farm
• Germination Tray = a small container used to plant seeds
• Semilla = Seed
• Semilleros = Seedbed
• Sterile Ash = mixed with seeds to help farmer see the distribution of seeds in the germination tray
• Priming = Picking the leaves
• Recogedor (a) = Person who picks the tobacco leaves.