1. 30 The research progress of enzymatic degumming and retting for bast fibres pulping is reviewed in this paper, the external factors on retting of bast fibre are also summarized from biology.

2. After retting, the stalks are ready for scutching, which takes place between August and December.

3. Natural retting methods take place in tanks and pools, or directly in the fields.

4. 11 Different part, diameter and ripeness had different effects on speed of retting because of different chemical composition and distribution of fiber.

5. There are also chemical retting methods; these are faster, but are typically more harmful to the environment and to the fibers themselves.