Three Sisters Garden

Sisters function as safety nets in a chaotic world simply by being there for each other. ~ Carol Saline 

What are the Three Sisters? 

The Three Sisters (corn, beans, and squash) are a perfect example of agricultural sustainability.  When planted together ~  

• Corn acts as a beanstalk for the beans. 

• Beans replenish nitrogen in the soil needed by the corn and help to anchor the corn stalks more securely in the ground.  

• Squash helps to protect the corn and beans from animals, promotes moisture retention in the soil, and reduces weed growth. 

History and Science of the Three Sisters 

Approximately 6,000 years ago, squash, corn, and beans were domesticated in Mesoamerica.  As these crops were cultivated into what we have today, the practice of interplanting them was also perfected. This particular combination of crops spread north from Mesoamerica and was well established in what is now the United States by about 1070 A.D.  Planting corn, beans, and squash together provided a bigger harvest and allowed for more people to be fed from fewer plants.  When eaten together, the Three Sisters met almost all of the nutritional needs of a single person.  

Cultural Influence of the Three Sisters 

The Three Sisters were not just a blueprint for a beautiful and healthy garden. They also influenced Indigenous stories, ceremonies, and  customs.  One legend says that the Sky Mother gifted the Three Sisters to her people, yet another tells the story of three sisters who were very  different and fought all the time but learned how to use their individuality to support and nourish each other.   

While there are many different origin stories, they all impart the same message - corn, beans, and squash are the spiritual and physical sustainers of life.  Furthermore, they teach us that everyone has something to offer and we are stronger when our unique qualities are combined.