Apple: This lunch-box favorite originated in Khazakstan and probably came to this continent from Europe. An intersting fact about this fruit is that its' seeds are "hetero-zygotic," meaning every seed in an apple carries an individual set of genes. Each seed creates a completely unique apple tree with it's own sweetness, tartness, size, color, and texture.
Tulip: A Dutch delicacy was once the financial pinnacle of Holland. After a sudden drop in sales, the blossom lost its value, but not its appeal. The tulip remains an iconic image of Dutch culture.
Marijuana: Pollan bares his experiences with this psychedelic plant. Nothing very interesting about this except that the people who grow it dedicate their lives to this demanding hobby.
Potato: Ireland's bane, and here's why: Ireland relied on monoculturism in potatoes. Only one strain of potato in the entire country. When this strain became vulnerable to a certain pest, the entire crop perished.
In summary: this guy spends way too much time in his garden. Although he's coming to Syracuse next year to speak I'm not sure I would want to listen to three hours of gardening tips.
