The Ingenious Farming Techniques of the Incas
What kind of innovating farming did the Incas use to get their crops?
Option 1: Terrace farming
Option 2: Aquaponics
Option 3: Vertical farming
Option 4: Hydroponics
Final answer: The Incas innovated with terrace farming to efficiently grow crops in the steep Andean mountainsides which supported their large population.
Answer:
The Incas used terrace farming as their innovative agricultural technique to grow their crops.
The Inca civilization developed sophisticated farming practices to cultivate crops in the challenging terrain of the Andean mountains. One of the most remarkable techniques they utilized was terrace farming. This method involved cutting flat platforms into the steep mountainsides to create a series of steps or terraces.
Terrace farming provided several advantages for the Inca people. Firstly, it allowed them to make efficient use of the limited arable land available in the mountainous regions. By creating these terraces, they were able to expand the cultivable area and maximize crop yields.
Moreover, terrace farming facilitated improved irrigation systems. The terraces helped to retain water on each level, preventing excess runoff and ensuring that the crops received sufficient moisture. This was crucial for agriculture in a region with variable rainfall patterns.
Another benefit of terrace farming was the prevention of soil erosion. The stepped structure of the terraces helped to control soil movement downhill, protecting the fertile topsoil from being washed away during heavy rains or strong winds.
Additionally, terrace farming created micro-climates within each terrace. The varying elevations and exposure to sunlight on different levels allowed the Inca farmers to cultivate a diverse range of crops suited to specific growing conditions. This diversity in agriculture contributed to the sustainability of their food supply.
By mastering terrace farming, the Incas were able to grow staple crops like corn alongside other important food sources. This agricultural innovation played a crucial role in supporting the substantial population of the Inca Empire, estimated to have ranged from 4 million to potentially up to 40 million inhabitants.
Furthermore, the Incas did not solely rely on agriculture for sustenance. They also engaged in animal husbandry and trade with neighboring regions to access a variety of resources. This diverse economy, combined with their ingenious farming techniques, enabled the Inca civilization to thrive in the challenging environment of the Andes.