Sorry, had a camping trip this weekend and was unavailable to answer questions or respond to comments. Here are some pics, just to keep the thread interesting.. 8)
"Why did you choose these tobaccos to grow?"
I chose two Turkish tabacs, because I really dig Turkish tobacco. I work all the damn time these days and plan on rolling my own small cigarillos that I can smoke on smoke breaks, and Turkish tabac seemed a very good choice.
I wanted a Virginia Gold, but the site I ordered my Tobacco from didn't have any Virginias that I could find. I did go with the Connecticut Broadleaf though, which should be a good evening smoke, and provide good leaves to roll my tabac in.
I also wanted to try some native American rustica. Living where I do, it seemed appropriate to try some of the Southwestern tribe's tobacco mixed with the Eastern United States tobacco. The Hopi Indian Tobacco fit the bill nicely, and in theory, will blend well with the lower nicotine content Connecticut Broadleaf very nicely.
The Aztec Tobacco I got just because it sounded neat.
"And do you mind giving us an idea where you live? I'm curious about climate."
Northeastern Oklahoma, right at the heart of the Cherokee Nation. Tahlequah, if you want specifics.
"I'm wondering about the CT broadleaf you're growing. That's a shade-grown tobacco, isn't it? What are you going to make your tent(s) out of?"
Actually, that's the first I heard about C.B. being shade grown. Like I said, this is all experiment and trial and error this time around. I guess I had better research each plant individually rather than researching generic "how to grow tabac" like I have been. I guess if I need to keep the C.B. shaded, along the south side of the house with a small awning made from tarp should work well. I'll keep in mind to update this thread with the specifics on that when it comes time.
"As long as leaf is not taxed beyond reach, I wouldn't bother. I want to relax with a pipe, not farm tobacco."
Lol, well I recently discovered how much enjoyment I get from gardening, and thought this sounded a nice way to combine two interests. Actually, gardening and pipe smoking are very compatible hobbies. Both are centered around patience, both take time to get right, both give you a sense of calm.. I think every pipe smoker should grow at least ONE plant, regardless of what type of plant it is.