Descripçaõ sobre a cultura do Canamo ou Canave

This early modern treatise offers a detailed look at how hemp—known then as canam—was cultivated across Europe. Written in Portuguese in the late 1500s, the author gathers observations from places as varied as the chilly fields of Canada and the temperate soils of the Low Countries. The text reads like a farmer’s notebook, blending practical tips with the scientific curiosities of its time.

Readers will find step‑by‑step guidance on everything from choosing the right climate and soil texture to preparing the ground with specific manures such as horse, sheep and even pigeon droppings. The work explains the seasonal rhythm of plowing, harrowing and seed sowing, warning about early frosts, summer droughts and the danger of overly dense plantings. With clear illustrations of irrigation near streams and methods for gathering the harvested stalks, the manual remains a vivid snapshot of agricultural knowledge before the industrial age.