Plant Guilds

Discover time-tested plant combinations that work together in harmony. Guild planting creates resilient, productive ecosystems where each plant supports the others through beneficial relationships.

What Are Plant Guilds?

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Mutual Support

Plants in guilds support each other through nutrient sharing, pest control, and physical structure.

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Natural Systems

Guilds mimic natural ecosystems, creating self-sustaining gardens that require less maintenance.

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Better Yields

Research shows guild planting can produce higher yields than monocultures in the same space.

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Three Sisters

🌾 Annual Polycultures
intermediate
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The Three Sisters is a traditional Native American agricultural guild that has been cultivated for thousands of years across North and Central America. This ancient polyculture system combines corn, pole beans, and winter squash in a synergistic relationship where each plant supports and benefits the others. The corn provides vertical structure for beans to climb, the beans fix nitrogen in the soil for all three crops, and the squash spreads across the ground suppressing weeds and retaining soil moisture. This time-tested growing method demonstrates sophisticated ecological knowledge, producing higher yields than monocultures while maintaining soil fertility. The Three Sisters not only provides a balanced diet of carbohydrates, protein, and vitamins but also represents a sacred cultural tradition that honors the interconnectedness of all life.

3 plants100-150 sq ft minimum

Start Your Guild Garden

Ready to create a thriving ecosystem in your garden? Explore our plant guides to learn about each guild member, or dive into traditional growing wisdom.