Broadleaf Harvest Preparation

Tractors are getting tuned up for harvest.

 Riggens  {tobacco wagons} are being checked for strong wood good welds and good tires.

50 gallon water barrels on wheels are cleaned and filled with water so the workers can have fresh water as needed.

Tobacco sheds are open to air out. 

 Tobacco lath {sticks broadleaf hangs on} are checked.  Broadleaf hatchets are being sharpened. Air tanks, spare tires, cases of oil, and antifreeze are piled high. Fuel tanks are full. Propane tanks are at the tobacco sheds. Burners, pipes and charcoal are ready for curing the leaves. Of course the 1950's old red tractors run for 12 hours a day. Top speed  is between 9 to 15 mph. Speeds over 15 mph the leafs slap back and forth and break from the wind .