Agricultural machinery is virtually useless on the tightly manicured and sculpted terraces. Cultivation and cutting must be done with muscle and brawn. Many terraces are difficult to reach and only the most able bodied can do it. There are not even ways for cow or mule to help with the weary tasks.

In both the north and south of the island, vines are planted in lanes that incline to follow the natural declivity’s of the slopes, positioned to receive maximum exposure to  the sun and distanced to permit other crops to grow between them.
Vines are planted at a certain depth, depending upon the type of soil, deep enough for coolness and protection of the roots from the hot sun. Rocks are added at the bottom of the holes in order that the soil may remain loose and not packed down.
Each vine must be about 2 1/2 meters from the next one, and be located near the irrigation channels, as proper watering is critical.
In the colder northern regions the vineyards are never situated at a height of more than 1200 feet above sea level, and the vines here produce several different varieties of grapes that are scientifically blended with those grown in the south to maintain the high quality that makes the wine of Madeira so justly celebrated.