On the culture of tobacco

from a review of “Brodigan’s Treatise on the Tobacco Plant,” in the Gardener's Magazine

Abstract

This article reviews and summarises Brodigan’s Treatise on the Tobacco Plant as published in the Gardener’s Magazine, with particular focus on the history and agricultural practice of tobacco cultivation in Ireland. The review outlines the introduction of tobacco to Ireland in the 16th century, subsequent legislative restrictions, and the gradual expansion of the crop in the early 19th century. Detailed accounts are provided of Brodigan’s methods for sowing, transplanting, field preparation, protection of young plants, and techniques for summer management.

The article further describes Brodigan’s multi-stage curing and fermentation processes, including temperature ranges, handling, drying, and preparation for storage. Comparative remarks are offered on American and French practices, suggested improvements to Irish curing methods, and the potential use of drying-houses heated by flues or steam. The review concludes with commentary on the economic viability of tobacco as a crop in Ireland, its labour demands, its role in rural employment cycles, and simplified approaches for smallholders and gardeners. Observations are also included on basic manufacturing practices for smoking tobacco, snuff, ropes, and rudimentary cigars.