These pairs of leaves are called palmas . The palms are hung on poles that are progressively moved to the top of the drying barn. The entire drying process takes about 45-60 days. During this drying period, the leaves turn from green to yellow to dark brown. During the entire drying process the leaves are carefully watched so they will not try too quickly and lose their precious flavor giving oils.
Workers keep a close eye on the ambient temperature and humidity, as well as rainfall.
When the leaves are cured or dried, they must be fermented. This is usually done twice, with the exception of leaves destined to produce the Cuban Cohiba which is fermented three times. Two fermentation's take between 30-90 days depending on the class of tobacco. In the process the leaves are carefully and individually laid upon each other into a pile. The pile is called a burros and is covered with cloth.