SQUASH!

Last week, we talked about the squash lifecycle from seed to fruit.  Many learners were surprised to realize that the life “cycle” really is a cycle, and doesn’t simply begin with a seed and end at fruit production.  We opened 6 different types of squash.  Learners observed what they looked like inside, and cleaned out the seeds.  Many learners were surprised at how similar squash looked in comparison to their Halloween Pumpkins.   Several learners had big ah-haaa moments when I explained that their observations were correct, and that a pumpkin actually is a type of squash.

After cleaning the squash, we talked about how the CA Native Americans used all the parts of their pumpkins or squash, from drying the flesh to weave into mats, to using the empty shell as a bowl.  We also learned about how the native people planted the three sisters (beans, corn and squash) together because the plants provided each other with different needs that benefited the harvest.  Learners are looking forward to planting a three sisters garden in the spring.

Finally, to celebrate fall and taste some traditional Native Californian food, we roasted our squash and cut it into bite-sized pieces.  Everyone sampled a variety of roasted squash, and a variety of seeds.  We also made a delicious kobucha squash soup (not traditional, but yummy!).  Learners really enjoyed trying all the different squash varieties.

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