agriculture review

Three Sisters Gardening: Sustainable & Productive

by aditya abhishek

Introduction

It is a traditional method of planting 3 crops corn, beans, and squash in the same plot. It has been practiced by Native American tribes for centuries. 

These crops compliment each other. They act as companion plants which helps in plant growth, reduce pests and diseases, fertilizers, irrigation, etc. needs. 

Corn takes up nitrogen, which the beans fix in nodules on their roots, and the squash provides ground cover that helps retain moisture and nutrients.

The beans repel pests like aphids and beetles while also attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees, which helps pollinate the crops.

How To Start

Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Avoid selecting a site that has waterlogging problem. 

Planting

Sow beans first, Plant beans 2 to 3 weeks after planting corn. Plant squash, after emergence of beans seedlings. 

Care

Keep removing weeds, add  a handful of organic manure per plant once after every 30 days. Do not over fertilize. Make sure that water drains out completely. 

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