Mission Dolores: Not Exactly a Salad Bar, But They Did Have Some Garden Gangsters!
Ever wondered what our ancestors in San Francisco were noshing on? We're not talking sourdough bread and burritos just yet (although, let's be real, those would have been epic additions). We're diving into the delicious (and sometimes not-so-delicious) history of what crops were grown at Mission San Francisco de As�s, also known as Mission Dolores.
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| What Crops Were Grown At Mission San Francisco De Asis |
The Dirt on Dirt: Not the Most Fertile Ground
Let's be honest, San Francisco isn't exactly known for its sprawling farmlands. The soil around the mission wasn't the most fertile, and those famous fog banks rolling in probably didn't help much. But fear not, intrepid foodie adventurer! The missionaries were a determined bunch.
Mission Im-possible? Not Quite! (But Maybe More Like Mission Im-probable)
Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, the missionaries and the Ohlone people, who lived on the land for centuries before the mission's arrival, managed to cultivate a decent spread. Here's what tickled their taste buds:
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Grains Gang: Wheat and barley were the rockstars. These hearty crops provided flour for bread, a staple in their diet. Imagine folks rocking out to a medieval air guitar solo while they harvested – maybe not, but you get the picture.
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Bean Bonanza: Beans of all shapes and sizes were on the menu. These little nutritional powerhouses were a great source of protein and fiber, keeping everyone fueled for those long days converting the locals (and tending the crops, of course).
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Pea-riffic! Peas also joined the party, adding another layer of flavor and nutrients to the table.
Bonus Round: Garden Guerrillas (Maybe) There's some debate about whether they actually grew fruits and vegetables besides peas. Some sources say they might have had a go at things like corn and berries, but the evidence is a little fuzzy. We like to imagine them giving it the old college try, though!
QuickTip: Read with curiosity — ask ‘why’ often.
Mission Dolores: Not a Foodie Paradise, But They Made it Work!
While Mission San Francisco de As�s wasn't exactly a contender for "Most Lavish Mission Buffet," they did manage to cultivate a variety of crops that kept the community going. Hey, you gotta work with what you've got, and those missionaries sure had some grit!
FAQ: Mission Dolores Edition (How to Be a Mission-Worthy Gardener)
Inspired by the mission's agricultural ingenuity (or sheer desperation, depending on how you look at it)? Here are some quick tips for cultivating your own historical garden:
How to grow Wheat and Barley?
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
These grains prefer cool, moist weather. Fall planting is best in most climates.
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How to grow Beans?
Beans are nitrogen-fixers, meaning they add nutrients to the soil. They're pretty easygoing, but be sure to check for specific planting times depending on your variety.
Note: Skipping ahead? Don’t miss the middle sections.
How to grow Peas?
Peas are another cool-weather crop. They're great for beginners and love a little trellis support.
How to grow Corn?
QuickTip: Skim the intro, then dive deeper.
Corn needs warm soil and plenty of sun. It can be a bit trickier, but the reward is worth it (fresh corn on the cob, anyone?)
How to grow Berries?
There are many types of berries, so research what grows best in your climate. Raspberries and strawberries are good options for beginners.
So there you have it! With a little know-how and a dash of mission-inspired determination, you too can cultivate a piece of history in your own backyard. Happy planting!
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