Planting and Growing Guide for Gourds (Cucurbita sp.)
Description
Gourds are large trailing and spreading vine plants with large hard skinned fruit of various shapes, sizes and colors. Gourds are frost tender and grow best in warm conditions. Most gourds grow into large spreading plants that need a trellis or some other support to keep the fruit off the ground. Grow Gourds at the edge of your garden or along a fence or wall to save space and contain them. Gourds are very sensitive to the cold. Most varieties have a long growing season. Harvest gourds as late as possible, as gourds only store well when they are fully ripe. When harvesting, leave a short section of the stem attached, and store in a dry place with good air circulation.
Planting Guide
Seed Depth: Sow seed 1 cm (1/2 inch) deep in seed trays in frosty areas. Plant out after 4-6 weeks when frosts have ceased. Or sow several seeds directly into mounds which have plenty of space around them for the vines to spread. Thin as required. Gourds require warm temperatures to germinate and produce good fruit
Space between plants: Space plants about 90-120 cm (3-4 feet) apart. Allow several feet between mounds. Do not overcrowd the plants to reduce likelihood of fungal problems. Good airflow around the vines is essential. When growing on a trellis, set plants at about 45 cm (18 inches) apart.
Harvest Time: Harvest in about 15-20 weeks, but small fruit can be picked earlier. The small shoots and leaves and the flowers can be picked earlier.
Hints:
- Gourds are grown like pumpkins. In most places seeds are sown in warm soil in spring and harvested in early winter
- Water the base of the plant not the leaves and fruit to reduce the likelihood of moulds. Water frequently to avoid growth checks. Add a thick layer of mulch to retain soil moisture and even out soil temperatures. Mulch retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and discourages pests such as snails and slugs.
- Does best in full sun in warmer areas; part shade in hotter areas
- Feed regularly with liquid or pellet fertiliser, aged compost or well-rotted manure as plants grow
- Does best in rich, well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acid pH (5.5-7.5)
- Gourds foliage is easily damaged and dried out in wind. Water frequently in hot weather as the plants will wilt.
- Gourds should be cured in the sun for about a week, after the vines die-off to toughen the skin before being put away for storage
Disclaimer: The PlantWhatWhen vegetable planting guide is only designed for use as a very general reference for home gardening purposes. It is not to be used for farming, markets or commercial activities of any kind whatsoever. We take absolutely no responsibility for the accuracy and adequacy of the information provided on this site. We recommend that you consider your local climate, weather patterns and conditions when deciding what and when to plant in your home garden. It's entirely your own decision. Happy Gardening and Best Wishes!