The agricultural technique of the ancient Mayans could revolutionize Martian agriculture

As humans consider colonizing Mars, the issue of food becomes increasingly important, according to Smithsonian Magazine. While the logistics of transporting food from Earth are impractical and expensive, researchers are turning to ancient agricultural practices for a solution. Intercropping, an innovative technique used by Mayan farmers centuries ago, is now being studied as a viable method for growing vegetables on the Red Planet.

In a recent study published in the journal Plos One, scientists from Wageningen University and Research Center in the Netherlands conducted experiments in greenhouses to simulate Martian conditions. Using a combination of rocks, dust and sand – called regolith – they planted peas, carrots and tomatoes both individually and in combination. In addition to regolith, they also planted vegetables in other types of soil, such as sand and potting soil.

After 105 days, the results were mixed but promising. Tomatoes thrived when planted alongside peas and carrots, showing higher levels of potassium, biomass and yield compared to the monoculture. However, carrots had difficulty intercropping, probably due to competition for light from taller plants.

Although challenges remain, such as optimizing crop combinations for maximum yield, these findings mark a significant step forward in Martian agriculture research. Additionally, the wisdom gained from these experiments could be beneficial to Earth’s farmers facing challenges related to climate change.

In addition to intercrops, scientists are exploring a number of innovative solutions to sustain life on Mars. From using fly larvae to enrich Martian soil to experimenting with vertical farming techniques, the quest for Martian agriculture holds promise not just for space exploration, but also for solving agricultural sustainability issues on Earth.

As astrobiologist Rebecca Gonçalves observes, uncovering the secrets of Martian agriculture could provide solutions to the problems of terrestrial agriculture, aligning the goals of space exploration with the needs of our planet.