3 Sisters planting refers to a very specific, quite old practice of planting, Corn, Beans and Squash in a certain way, in a certain order, to be mutually beneficial to the crops, but also the soil around it. 3 sisters planting finds its origins in Indigenous agricultural traditions; rooted in observance, balance and respect for the land. This method of interplanting attracts pollinators, but also makes the land richer instead of stripping it of its nutrients.
Corn, the older sister, is planted first. The corn provided a natural trellis for the beans to climb. Pole Beans, the giving sister, enriches the soil with nutrients. For this to work, it must be pole beans, bush beans will not climb and create a barrier for squash to grow. Lastly is the Squash, the true workhorse. The squash not only uses its large leaves to create a natural mulch, a cool and moist environment, an inhospitable environment for weeds, but also deters many predators like raccoons with its prickly leaves. Small leaf squash like zucchini work quite well for this. Heavy feeders like pumpkins are discouraged for this type of planting, as well as the space they require.
A few troubleshooting points, this specific type of planting takes a considerable amount of space. Each set of sisters needs about 4’ of space, and 3’-4’ between sets. Corn itself needs a large number of stalks in order to cross pollinate properly, although it is possible to hand pollinate. All things I will noodle this year as I attempt this type of planting in my large garden. This link provides a great breakdown for planting via the 3 sisters method.
https://www.almanac.com/content/three-sisters-corn-bean-and-squash
– Authored by: Marissa L.C.
Alberta Witches Association 