Hicks’ Greens Three Sisters Planting V2.0 will strive to build on last year’s garden with new seed varieties meant to withstand some of the growing issues we encountered last year. Our work strives to achieve a more densely planted garden to maximize yields in an urban environment.

The Iroquois and the Cherokee called corn, bean, and squash the three sisters' because they nurture each other like family when planted together. These agriculturalists placed corn in small hills planting beans around them and interspersing squash throughout of the field. Beans naturally absorb nitrogen from the air and convert it to nitrates, fertilizing the soil for the corn and squash. In return, they are supported by winding around the corn stalks. The squash leaves provide ground cover between the corn and beans, preventing weeds from taking over the field. These three plants thrive together better than when they are planted alone.

Want your own Three Sisters garden? Check out our design services!