The three sisters (corn, beans, and squash) have been planted by traditional Native American gardeners in many different regions of North America. Known as the “sustainers of life,” Native Americans consider corn, beans, and squash to be special gifts from the Creator. Many legends have been woven around the “three sisters,” as sisters who are never apart and whose spirits protect the well-being of each crop.

Today, we appreciate the genius of the three sisters garden as an example of the benefits of companion planting. Pole beans and squash are interplanted with corn, using the strength and height of the corn stalks to support the twining beans while the sprawling squash vines with their big, prickly leaves shade the ground to prevent moisture loss and discourage weeds and pests. Further, the bacterial colonies on the bean roots capture nitrogen from the air, some of which is released into the soil to provide the high nitrogen needs of the corn.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is simply when two or more plants are grown close together for the benefit of one or more of the plants. The benefit may be one way or mutual. Other examples include basil and tomatoes (basil repels or disorients certain pests and also attracts bees which improves pollination) and nasturtiums and brassicas (nasturtiums attract hungry caterpillars).

Growing a Three Sisters Garden

Corn, beans, and squash are all warm-season plants. Plant corn once danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures reach 55 degrees F. Don’t plant the beans and squash until the corn is about 6-12” tall. Plant the beans, and then the squash about 1 week later. This interplanting method is not based on rows, but rather in groups on a small hill. There are many websites and sources of information on the specific types of corn, beans and squash that work best in this type of planting.

Corn is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lutein. It is naturally gluten-free and high in dietary fiber. Corn is a staple food, one of the most commonly eaten and grown in the world. There are more than 200 varieties grown in the US alone.

Beans are a great source of fiber and protein, as well as iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and folate. Garbanzo beans (chickpeas), lentils, peas, kidney beans and black beans are often cited as the healthiest beans but all varieties of beans have nutritional benefits.

Squash is rich in vitamin C, high in fiber, and a good source of magnesium, calcium, iron, and vitamin A. There are two main categories of squash: summer squash, which is harvested when immature, and winter squash, which spends more time on the vine and typically has a hard, rigid, exterior.