| 1 |
 |
“...157
and it claims a record for the attention of those who cultivate
this valuable Fibre in Turks Islands.) '
Another variety (Agave rigida, var. Sisalana) was very
freely distributed in the Bahamas by His Excellency Sir Henry
Blake, when he was Governor in that colony ^). The inhabitants
now see the great importance of this industry, and the Government
has been induced to forbid the export of any plants for three
years. This variety is of a dark green colour, and has no spines
on the edges of the leaves. The absence of spines on the edges
saves trouble and expense in harvesting.
SOIL.
Pg. 82. Any dry, poor land will suit Sisal Hemp, but
rocky, gravelly soil is the best for the production of the
finest fibre. Moist land is not suitable, nor rich land, like old
Sugar Estates, for though the leaves grow well and fast, the
fibre is poor, and small in quantity. Shade is prejudicial, even
to the young plants.
PLANTING.
..... The plants are put out in straight rows: the...”
|
|
