Corn and the Three Sisters Method





I decided to grow corn this year. It's amazing to watch it grow. It starts out as this tiny seed. Then, a small green sprout pops up from the soil. After a few days, it's inches tall. As the weeks go by, it's all of a sudden knee height. More time, and as you stand there watering, you realize the stalks are taller than you. Now, it's a waiting game to see the cobs start.


Now, if you've never heard of the Three Sisters method, it's a traditional Native American way of planting. The Three Sisters being corn, beans, and squash. The corn supports the beans, while the squash provides shade and weed control. Here's a link to read more in depth, if you'd like. 


I planted Black Beauty zucchini and some melon seeds that I had saved. I did not plant beans. Mostly because I was curious to see how the squash and corn would do. 

All in all, I would say it was very successful. The squash have done fantastic. It provides shade, which helps hold the moisture in the ground better. Mostly blocks the weeds. And I'm getting zucchini. So, a win all around.



Even the melon seeds that I had saved grew. The plants are definitely smaller, but vining out decently. So far, I've counted 5 melons. Another win.



To help hold the moisture in better, I did mulch the entire bed with straw after the corn had sprouted and I could see where it was. Made a huge difference for weed control and retaining moisture.
Next time, I will plant the full Three Sisters. 
 

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