![]() The next operation is to separate the fibers from the stem this is done by a process called scutching, formerly practiced, but now by a machine called a brake the operation is only breaking the reed or woody part, for the fiber itself, of which is the filamentous substance hemp only bends, and does not break. But if not sufficiently steeped, it becomes harsh, coarse, non-elastic, and encumbered with woody shives, which is a great defect. If let lie in water too long, the fibers are too much divided, and by an undue dissolution of the gum, would not have the strength to stand the effort it should, in being dressed. It is immersed in water as soon as possible as by drying, the mucilage hardens, and it requires a more severe operation to develop the bark than when macerated directly, which is injurious to the fiber. When gathered, it is taken by the root end in large handfuls, and with a wooden sword the flowers and leaves are dressed off-twelve hands form a bundle, head, or layer. The harvest for pulling the male is about August, the female not being fit until Michaelmas. The ripeness of the male plant is known by the leaves turning yellow, and the stem of a whitish color and the ripeness of the female, by the opening of the pods so much that the seed may be seen-they will have a brownish appearance. ![]() ![]() The plants should be left thick, as without this precaution, the plants grow large, the bark woody, and the fibers harsh. The time for sowing is from the beginning to the end of April if sown earlier, the plants become tender, the frost will injure, if not totally destroy them. Seed to be sown, should be of the preceding year, because it is an oily grain, and is apt to become rancid if kept too long it is also advisable to choose the seed every second year from a different soil. ![]()
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