. The sugar cane is planted in rows, and as it has a thick 



of Cane foliage, the ground is soon thoroughly shaded. This shade 



keeps down the weeds and aids in retaining moisture. On the 

 newer lands, particularly, there is little expense for weeding because the dense 

 jungle has not been favorable to the propagation of weeds, but in some parts 

 of the island, notably on the older plantations, their elimination is accom- 

 plished at considerable expense. If the weeds become serious, they are cut 

 down with the hoe or machete. This must be done in the early months 

 before the foliage becomes too dense. 



The cane begins to ripen in December and the harvesting 

 of Cane season extends through the month of June. Some centrals how- 



ever grind much later. The sugar cane is cut close to the ground 

 with a harvesting knife called a machete. It is stripped of its leaves, and its 

 tops, and then cut into convenient lengths of three or four feet. These cut 

 canes are conveyed from the fields to the loading stations in ox-carts. Indeed 

 the ox-cart has proven to be the most economical and efficient method of 

 transporting cane in the field. It is interesting to note the survival of this 

 primitive form of transportation in an industry which is famous for its 

 splendid automatic mechanical devices. 



Cane on the way to be made into sugar 

 20 



