Indigenous Agriculture & Thanksgiving
"Indigenous peoples are of those who inhabited a country or a geographical region at a time when people of ___ cultures or ethnic origins arrived."
Different
Growing ___ is any substance that you use to grow plants in.
Media
True or False: Soil is typically lacking in nutrients, while alternative growing media are not!
False; Soil is typically rich in nutrients
Soil formation is a ___ process, but the results are very gradual (slow).
Continual
True or False: The Fir Tree prefers to be outdoors.
False; Indoors
True or False: The story of a peaceful, mutually beneficial meal between the European settlers and Native Americans can be seen as a myth that obscures the harsh realities of colonization.
True
What fruit is used to make the growing medium, "Coco coir?"
Coconut
What three (3) forms does coco coir come in?
Pith, Fiber, Chips
Which soil horizon is commonly referred to as "topsoil?"
A Horizon
Name four (4) common Pine Tree species.
Scotch Pine, Eastern White Pine, Ponderosa Pine
There are less indigenous tribes distributed throughout North America due to a phenomenon known as ___ ___.
Settler colonialism
What growing medium is a lightweight, granular material that is white in color?
Perlite
Peat/sphagnum moss can hold up to ___x their weight in ___.
20; Water
What are the three (3) textures (physical properties) of soil?
Sand, Silt, Clay
Describe the needle characteristics of the Spruce Tree.
Short, stiff, and sharp needles that are attached individually to branches; Can be dark green to blue-green or silvery depending on the species; Retains needles well
“Three Sisters” farming involves what three (3) crops? What are each of the crops' purposes?
The corn provides structure for beans to climb
The beans add nitrogen to the soil
The squash’s large leaves help suppress weed growth
Describe the difference between Peat moss and Sphagnum moss.
Peat moss is dead, dry
Sphagnum moss is living, wet
True or False: Vermiculite is inexpensive compared to other growing media.
False; Expensive
Soil is the loose surface material that covers most land. It consists of __ particles and __ matter.
Inorganic; Organic
Christmas trees, along with other plants, have the ability to perform carbon sequestration. Define carbon sequestration.
Carbon Sequestration: Removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contributing to environmental conservation
Identify and describe one (1) example of an Indigenous Agriculture practice.
Possible Answers:
Traditional Seeds and Crop Varieties
Traditional, locally adapted seed varieties
Selected over generations for their resilience, nutritional value, and suitability to local environmental conditions
Agroforestry
Integrating trees and shrubs into agricultural landscapes
Improves soil fertility, increases water retention, enhances biodiversity
Trees and shrubs may also offer fruits, nuts, and other valuable products
Community Collaboration
Decision-making, resource management, and labor were shared, fostering a sense of collective responsibility for the land
Seasonal Planting and Harvesting
Many indigenous agricultural calendars are aligned with the natural seasons
Traditional Knowledge and Wisdom
Indigenous agricultural practices are rooted in traditional knowledge and wisdom passed down through generations
Planting and harvesting techniques and understanding of the interconnectedness of nature
Seed Saving and Exchanging
Preserving and exchanging seeds for future generations
Helps maintain agricultural biodiversity and ensures continuous supply of locally adapted seeds
Respect for Nature and Spiritual Practices
Indigenous agriculture are aligned with spiritual practices
The land is sacred and agricultural activities may be accompanied by rituals, ceremonies or expressions of gratitude to the earth
What land formations are required for the derivation (obtaining) of perlite?
Volcanoes
Name five (5) plants that grow best in sandy soil.
Possible answers:
Lavender, Tulips, Carrots, Potatoes, Radish, and other root vegetables
Identify and describe one (1) example of soil formation.
Possible answers:
Soil Formation Example #1: Root Heave
Root heave is a phenomenon where roots beneath the ground exert upward pressure as they search for nutrients, water, and oxygen
Root heave can cause rocks, pavement, and urban infrastructure to lift and crack
Erosion (breakdown) by suspended particles that impacts solid objects
Rock glaciers may not look like glaciers at first sight–this is because they are mantled (covered) with a thick layer of rock and debris
The rock and debris shields them from ablation (melting)
The formation of caverns and caves through the process of dissolving marble and opening up spaces within it
Caves take millions of years to form!
Soil Formation Example #5: Water Erosion
As water accumulates, it moves soil and rock particles, causing erosion
Fast-moving water erodes more
Slow-moving water erodes less
Creates landscapes and causes chemical weathering (i.e., dissolves rocks and minerals, forms caves and cliffs)
Identify and describe...
One (1) benefit and one (1) consideration of a real Christmas tree
One (1) benefit and one (1) consideration of a fake Christmas tree.
Possible answers:
Real Christmas Trees
Renewable Resource - Christmas tree farms often engage in sustainable practices such as planting new trees to replace those harvested
Biodegradable - Real trees are biodegradable, meaning they can decompose naturally and be recycled into mulch or compost after use
Fragrance - Real trees emit a natural, pleasant fragrance
Traditional Appeal - Many people appreciate the tradition and experience of selecting a real tree, cutting it down, or buying from a local tree farm
Supports Local Economies - Purchasing a real tree supports local farmers and economies, as Christmas tree farming is often a local, seasonal industry
Regular watering is necessary
Proper disposal methods (i.e., recycling, mulching) should be considered
Fake Christmas Trees
Reusable - Can be used for several years, potentially making them a more cost-effective option over time
Convenience - Easy to set up and take down, store and transport
Low Maintenance - Do not require watering and do not shed needles
Hypoallergenic - Do not release pollen or have the potential for mold growth
Customizable - Various sizes, shapes, and colors
*Other Considerations
Most artificial trees are made from non-biodegradable materials like PVC, which can have negative environmental impacts
The production and disposal of artificial trees contributes to carbon emissions
Some people find the appearance and feel of artificial trees as less authentic