Today, on National Indigenous Peoples Day, we are reflecting on the agricultural contributions, knowledge and practices of Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island that have shaped our growing practices and food system. Since time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples have been stewarding and cultivating this land – and their contributions are incredibly important to all growers.
Have you heard of the “Three Sisters”? This practice of companion planting corn, beans and squash is an idea that is alive and well in many gardens. But did you know the “Three Sisters” is based on traditional agricultural practices of Indigenous Peoples? Thanks to Indigenous knowledge, we know these three crops thrive better when planted together, providing structural support, nitrogen to the soil, and cover to prevent weeds – without the need for fertilizers and pesticides.
Another practice that is a favourite of many gardeners and growers is seed saving. Indigenous Peoples across the world have long traditions of seed collection and seed stewardship. Seeds Diversity explains: “Several of our oldest (seed) varieties in North America can be credited to Indigenous groups, who grew and selected varieties not only for their taste, but also for their cultural and historical significance.”
With seeds in mind, this National Indigenous Peoples Day we encourage you to seek out seeds for your Three Sisters and other planting adventures – along with traditional growing and seed saving knowledge – from Indigenous-led groups like these:
– Cultural Seeds is an Indigenous Woman-owned business that is rooted in Traditional Ecological Knowledge specializing in heritage and rare plants from Turtle Island. They sell and trade seeds – with all proceeds supporting Ga Gitigemi Gamik, We Will Plant Lodge: https://culturalseeds.com/
– Sovereign Seeds is an Indigenous-led network dedicated to the revitalization of Indigenous seed and food sovereignty: https://www.sovereignseeds.org/about
– Aamjiwnaang Greenhouse – Maajiigin Gumig “Place where plants start to grow” provides seed cleaning workshops: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100053209253736
– Miinikaan offers a seed library including free seed kits for Indigenous gardeners. growers and seed savers: https://www.miinikaan.com/blog/seed-kits-for-indigenous-gardens
📷 : https://bcfoodhistory.ca/three-sisters/