The phrase "What makes the grass grow? Blood!" is a well-known chant in the Marine Corps, symbolizing the sacrifice, hard work, and grit of Marines. It originates from drill instructors during basic training and serves as a motivational call and response emphasizing that Marines' efforts, including their sweat and blood, figuratively "make the grass grow" by enabling success and mission accomplishment

. From a literal standpoint, grass grows due to essential nutrients in the soil-primarily nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-which are vital for healthy grass development. Interestingly, blood contains these nutrients, especially nitrogen, and is sometimes used in organic gardening as "blood meal" fertilizer. So, while the chant is figurative, there is a factual basis: blood contains nutrients that can promote plant growth, though on a battlefield, grass rarely has the chance to grow due to heavy activity

. More broadly, the phrase encapsulates several core Marine values:

• Discipline and hard work: The relentless effort Marines put into training and missions.
• Sacrifice: Bloodshed, time away from family, and enduring hardships.
• Leadership and brotherhood: The teamwork and accountability within the Corps.
• Adaptability and resilience: Thriving under tough conditions.
• Legacy: Honoring those who came before by continuing the mission

In summary, "blood makes the grass grow" is both a literal nod to the nutrients in blood that can fertilize grass and a powerful metaphor for the dedication and sacrifice Marines embody to keep their mission and legacy alive