Yana Uqsha (Cajatambo)

Yana Uqsha (also spelled Yana Uksha) refers to a traditional Andean agricultural practice prevalent in the Cajatambo Province of the Lima Region, Peru. It describes the plowing or tilling of black earth or dark soil, typically in preparation for planting. The term is derived from Quechua, with "yana" meaning black and "uqsha" referring to a type of coarse grass or straw. The "Cajatambo" designation is added to specifically locate the practice geographically and distinguish it from potentially similar agricultural terms used in other regions. The technique often involves turning over soil that has been left fallow, possibly containing decomposed organic matter, enriching the soil for the subsequent crop. It is a traditional and sustainable form of soil management.