Including all the processes from seed to smoke, this book explains the science of tobacco - the cultivation of the plant, the leaves, curing, processing, manufacture and the physical and chemical properties of the final product. Breeding and genetics of the tobacco plant are discussed in relation to the new advances in biotechnology. General management practices are outlined for each major tobacco type. The chapter dealing with tobacco diseases also explains management control strategies, the economic losses that can ensue and the effects of diseases on the chemical composition of tobacco. Tobacco insect management from field production to stored product is discussed. Chemical and physical properties and cigarette manufacturing are the focus of three chapters. Tobacco's marketing systems, threshing and processing, ageing, fermentation and storage procedures are included. The book offers a broad view of current tobacco knowledge and practices and discusses the future development of tobacco.