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How To Grow Gourds
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PLANT TYPE: Annual
SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cucurbita spp./Lagenaria siceraria
LIGHT: Full Sun
SOIL TYPE: Well-drained, high organic matter
pH RANGE: 6.5 - 7.5
MOISTURE/WATERING: Keep moist, not waterlogged
MATURITY IN DAYS: Possible To first fall frost
KNOWN PESTS: Not affected with any noteworthy insects.
KNOWN DISEASES: Not affected with any noteworthy disease problems.
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OVERVIEW:
Gourds are a fun vegetable to grow. Gourds will grow and spread like pumpkins and need
plenty of room to spread. Smaller gourds can be trained to climb up a trellis.
Gourd plants can be grown by almost everyone. When gourds are mature they will dry
and have a pretty hard shell making them perfect for crafts. Many gardeners recommend
harvesting gourds after the first frost in the fall.
Gourds are great for crafts and many other decorative items.
PROPAGATION / SOWING OF GOURDS:
The small miniature gourd can be direct seeded after all risk of frost. It is advisable to start
larger gourds, siphon and bottles indoors about 3 weeks before transplanting. Provide a warm soil
temperature of 27°C (80°F) and a constant, even moisture. Individual peat pots are ideal for gourds
since the plant roots will not have to be disturbed at the time of transplanting. Plant gourds outside
after all danger of frost in rows, hills or on a sturdy trellis. Rows should be spaced about
5½’ apart with plants 45” apart. Fertilizing with a starter fertilizer at
time of transplanting is recommended.
COMPANION PLANTING OF GOURDS:
Celery, corn, melon, onion, radish.
CARE & GROWING OF GOURDS:
Gourds require full sun, a pH of 6.5-7.5 and good soil moisture, particularly during fruit set.
Gourds are moderate to heavy feeders, they require plenty of compost and well rotted manure worked
into the soil prior to planting.
HARVESTING OF GOURDS:
Small ornamental gourds should have a firm or hard skin. Gourds are ready for
harvesting when you are not able to easily puncture the skin with your thumb nail. Large gourds
should be pale in colour with a hard skin as well. Cut off the fruit with shears, leaving a
4” stem attached. Handle gourds with care to prevent bruising. Wash gourds in warm,
soapy water and rinse in a strong solution of non-bleaching disinfectant. Dry with a soft
cloth and store 4-6 weeks in a well-ventilated room. Hanging is best for maximum air circulation.
Check weekly and discard immature or soft gourds. Gourds are cured when thoroughly dry and
hard shelled. Apply wax and polish.
USA Gardener uses Veseys seeds.
Vegetables listed on this page can be purchased at Veseys Seeds & Bulbs
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Gourds don't like weeds, drought or bugs. Control most of the these problems by keeping
your gourds free of weeds and having a good spray program for pests.
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