We started the day at the local market in San Lucas Toliman where the indigenous people line the streets with their wares from fresh fruits and vegetables to bike parts and underwear, used and new clothing, tools and various foods and spices. Beautiful fabrics color the stalls, too. We then were treated to a tour guided by a naturalist, Gregorio, who is self taught and knows more about organic farming and symbiotic plant relationships than anyone I have ever met. He told us stories of folklore while still educating us to the Mayan planting practice of the 3 Sisters. Corn, squash and beans grow planted in the same location. Th beans climb up the corn stalk, the squash leaves cover the dirt and keep moisture in, provide nitrogen and minerals for the other plants and keep the moisture in the soil while all prevent erosion of the good soil. After the corn ears are about ready, they bend the stalk and point the corn ear to the ground. It finishes its ripening and the birds can no longer see the corn as it is hidden by the leaves on the stalks. Because the ears and silks are pointed to the ground, water can't enter the Tod of the corn and make the ears soften and ruined. Every single bit of the corn plant is used for one purpose or another. Gregorio took us to his personal land and showed us his Mayan Perma Cultura plantings. Many plants shade others. Many are nurturing others. He gave us tastes of many if his fruits. We learned that so many plants have excellent medicinal purposes and are used in natural ways. Will Iowa corn ever be able to be grown like the 3 sisters ? Politics, greed and big business effect these decisions. Perhaps that is why local farmers markets are becoming so popular. We do really all want to get back to basics. Tomorrow we begin building the cook stoves. Wish us luck!
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