The Three Sisters Method
The Three Sisters method is an ancient Indigenous companion planting technique involving, and named after three symbiotic crops: corn, beans, and squash. Corn acts as a pole for climbing beans, beans fix nitrogen to fertilize the soil, and squash spreads on the ground as a living mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture. The 3 sisters method forms the core of the wider Milpa system, a 9000 year old Mesoamerican agricultural system based in polyculture and intercropping techniques. Maximising productivity in small spaces.
How It Works
Ensure your soil is well-drained and fertile. Adding compost or well-rotted manure will improve soil structure and nutrient content. The site should receive full sun for most of the day.
If sowing direct to ground sow corn seeds after the last frost date,once the soil has reached least 10°C, normally late May to early June in the UK.
Plant corn seeds in blocks rather than rows to ensure proper pollination (is wind pollinated therefore this step is important). Space seeds about 30cm apart in each direction, forming a grid.
Once the corn reaches about 15cm (knee height), it’s time to plant the beans.
Plant two bean seeds at the base of each corn stalk. If both seeds germinate, thin to the strongest seedling.
Plant squash seeds at the same time as the beans. Sow seeds about 90cm apart, surrounding the perimeter of the corn and bean plot. You may wish wish to gently redirect the vines as they grow. Remember to allow space for you to walk inside the grid and harvest your beans if eating them young!
Corn is ready for harvest when the silks turn brown and the kernels are plump and milky when pierced.
Harvest summer squash when they are small and tender. Winter squash should be harvested when the skins are hard and the fruit sounds hollow when tapped.
If you wish to learn more about Milpa system or need help with a planting plan/crop rotation, please do not hesitate to get in touch.