What crops did the plains Indians grow?

Answer 1

The Plains tribes were nomadic hunters, following the herds in order to obtain meat. Growing most crops was not possible since the tribes did not remain in one place long enough to reap what was sown. Only wild plant foods were eaten, gathered in season by the women.

One exception to the rule was the Crow cultivation of tobacco. This was sacred tobacco used in ceremonies for gaining revenge on enemies and was never smoked; it was grown by the Tobacco Society which (unusually) consisted entirely of married couples. Seed was planted by Society members in May amid much ceremonial, including tribal processions, dancing and feasts. During the growing season there were many taboos intended to ensure a good crop; harvest was in mid-July.

Tribes on the margins of the Plains (such as the Mandans, Hidatsas and Arikaras) lived more static lifestyles in semi-permanent villages, where farming was possible. Maize (Indian corn), beans, tobacco and squash were the usual crops.

Answer 2

The Plains tribes were nomadic hunters, following the herds in order to obtain meat. Growing most crops was not possible since the tribes did not remain in one place long enough to reap what was sown. Only wild plant foods were eaten, gathered in season by the women.

One exception to the rule was the Crow cultivation of tobacco. This was sacred tobacco used in ceremonies for gaining revenge on enemies and was never smoked; it was grown by the Tobacco Society which (unusually) consisted entirely of married couples. Seed was planted by Society members in May amid much ceremonial, including tribal processions, dancing and feasts. During the growing season there were many taboos intended to ensure a good crop; harvest was in mid-July.