How does squash benefit a field planted with corn and beans?

In the traditional agricultural practice known as the Three Sisters, squash serves as a vital companion to corn and beans. As the "youngest sister," squash grows along the ground, and its large, fan-shaped leaves provide two primary benefits to the field:

• Moisture Retention: The leaves shade the soil, which helps retain essential moisture for all three crops.1
• Weed Suppression: The sprawling growth of the squash plants effectively crowds out weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and space.1

By acting as a living mulch, squash helps maintain a healthier growing environment for the corn and beans, contributing to the overall efficiency and sustainability of the milpa system.1