Mesoamerican agriculture refers to the farming practices developed by ancient civilizations in the region that includes present-day Mexico and Central America. Key crops included maize, beans, and squash, often referred to as the "Mesoamerican triad." These crops were cultivated using techniques such as slash-and-burn farming and raised fields, which helped maximize productivity in diverse environments. The agricultural systems in Mesoamerica were highly advanced, featuring the use of terracing and irrigation to manage water resources. Civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs developed complex societies supported by their agricultural surplus, which allowed for population growth and the establishment of cities.