Why do they plant corn and bean seeds together in the same hole when sowing crops

Planting corn and beans together has been a traditional practice in South America for centuries and is now being adopted by some farmers in Europe, with some of our landowners also taking note.

The advantages of this companion planting method are evident. These crops mutually benefit each other during their growth stages, providing mutual support, attracting bees for pollination, and enhancing the protein content in the silage. This was reported by SSPDaily.

How and when to plant corn and beans together

Both corn and beans thrive in warm climates and cannot withstand even mild frosts. Therefore, they are typically sown simultaneously, typically in late April or early May.

Seeds of corn and climbing beans should be sown when the soil temperature reaches 12-14 degrees Celsius.

Both crops will germinate within a week and coexist harmoniously, drawing the necessary nutrients from the soil without hindering each other's growth. Moreover, there are numerous advantages to this symbiotic relationship.

Why planting corn and beans together is effective

• One of the most apparent benefits is that as the plants grow, the beans can climb the corn stalks, eliminating the need for additional support structures. Conversely, the corn stalks provide support for the beans, keeping them off the ground and safeguarding them from potential rot. Consequently, the beans do not require staking, and both the corn stalks and bean vines can be used as fodder for livestock.

• Beans also enhance the protein content of corn. Agronomists note that while pure corn silage typically contains around seven percent protein, this can increase to nine percent when combined with beans, which is beneficial for livestock nutrition.
• Mixed plantings of corn and beans offer significant advantages for pollinators, such as providing an extended period of nectar sources for bees. While corn has a brief blooming period, beans bloom later and continue to flower for several weeks, ensuring a sustained food source for bees and other pollinators.
• Additionally, legumes like beans create a canopy that shades the soil, suppressing weed growth and reducing the risk of soil erosion.