Growing the The Three Sisters Seed Assortment

The traditional Three Sisters planting method includes sowing the corn seeds first in mounds of 3 corn seeds about 12 inches apart. About two weeks later, or when the corn is 4-6 inches tall, sow 3 bean seeds near each corn stalk. The 2 squash seeds are then sown about a week following the beans (which have visibly emerged from the ground). Sow the squash seeds around the outer edges of the mound to allow plenty of space for outward spreading vines. When growing multiple mounds, space approximately 3-4 feet apart. For field and rotational instructions utilizing the benefits the Three Sisters provide, check out the video below.

Blue Lake Pole Beans: To grow these delicious beans successfully, provide them with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Plant them about 0.5 inches deep after the last frost when the soil is warm. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide support for their vines (corn if growing with the three sisters method). Harvest the beans when they are tender and about 4-6 inches long for the best flavor. Frequent picking encourages more production.

Pinto Beans: Pinto beans are easy to grow. Plant them about 0.5 inch deep in full sun, directly into well-drained soil once the danger of frost has passed. Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering. These beans are ready for harvest when the pods are dry and the beans rattle inside. Simply pick and shell them for use in a variety of dishes. These are semi-climbing beans. While they do climb, they will have a shorter and bushier habit than most “pole” bean types.

Blue Hopi Corn: This heirloom corn variety thrives in warm conditions. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep in well-prepared soil after all danger of frost has passed. Corn must be placed near each other for pollination, so plant in blocks of multiple rows or clusters, not single rows. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the tasseling period. Harvest when the kernels are full and milky by puncturing a kernel with your fingernail. This variety is also popularly used for grinding into flour. For this purpose, be sure to let the corn more fully mature and dry.

Trucker's Favorite White Corn: This corn variety grows well in warm climates. Plant it in full sun and well-drained soil about 1-2 inches deep, ensuring that the soil is warm when you sow the seeds. Corn requires ample space for pollination, so plant in blocks or clusters. Doing so allows the tassels to pollinate with the help of the wind and pollinators. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the tasseling period. Harvest when the kernels are plump and exude a milky liquid when pressed.

Golden Delicious Winter Squash: Winter squash, like this variety, needs ample space to spread. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil with full sun. With the three sisters method, squash seeds are planted on the outside of the mound or cluster where the trailing vines have room to spread. Water consistently and deeply, allowing the soil to dry between watering. Harvest when the skin hardens, is difficult to puncture with your fingernail, and has taken on its appropriate color. This is typically in the fall when the vine begins to die back.

Cushaw Green Striped Winter Squash: Cushaw squash is similar to other winter squash varieties. Plant about 1 inch deep in well-drained soil with full sun and provide plenty of space for the vines to spread. Water deeply and consistently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Harvest when the skin hardens, typically in the fall, and the vine starts to wither. These instructions will help you cultivate a thriving Three Sisters garden and enjoy a bountiful and culturally rich harvest.

Growing Resources

• Creating a Three Sisters Garden
• The Three Sisters of Indigenous American Agriculture