The retting process relies on the action of microorganisms, primarily bacteria and fungi, which break down the pectins and lignins that bind the fibres to the hurd.

The retting duration can vary based on environmental conditions such as water temperature, microbial activity, and the desired quality of the jute fibres. It usually takes one to two weeks for the retting process to be completed. During this time, the microbial activity weakens the bonds between the fibres and the hurd, making it easier to separate them later in the processing.

After retting, the jute bundles are removed from the water, and the softened fibres are manually extracted from the stalks. This extraction process involves beating or stripping the fibres from the hurd, followed by washing to remove any residual materials. Once the fibres are separated, they are dried and often graded based on their colour, texture, and length.

Water retting is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for extracting jute fibres, as it utilises natural processes without the need for chemicals. However, it requires careful monitoring to prevent over-retting, which can result in weakened fibres, or under-retting, which can make fibre extraction more challenging. Despite these challenges, water retting remains a widely practiced method in regions where jute cultivation is prevalent.

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