1. Terracing: The Incas used terraces to cultivate crops on steep mountain slopes. These terraces helped to prevent soil erosion and conserve water.
2. Raised Beds: Raised beds were used to improve drainage and aeration of the soil. They also helped to warm the soil, allowing for earlier planting.
3. Irrigation: The Incas built irrigation canals to bring water from rivers and streams to their fields. This allowed them to grow crops in areas that would otherwise be too dry for agriculture.
4. Crop Rotation: The Incas rotated crops to maintain soil fertility and prevent the buildup of pests and diseases.
5. Fertilizers: The Incas used various fertilizers, including guano (bird droppings), fish emulsion, and manure, to improve soil fertility.
Building Techniques:
1. Stone Masonry: The Incas were master stone masons. They built their structures without using mortar, and their stones fit together so precisely that a knife blade couldn't be inserted between them.
2. Corbelled Arches: Corbelled arches are formed by overlapping stones that gradually project inward until they meet at the top. The Incas used corbelled arches to create doorways, windows, and niches.
3. Cyclopean Walls: Cyclopean walls are built with large, irregularly shaped stones. The Incas used cyclopean walls to construct fortifications, temples, and other important buildings.
4. Thatched Roofs: Most Inca buildings had thatched roofs made from reeds, grass, or straw.
5. Adobe Bricks: Adobe bricks were used to build houses and other structures in areas where stone was not readily available.