Gourd - Large Mixed

(Lagenaria siceraria) - Certified Organic Seed - Grown at Greenpatch Organic Seeds

Large Mixed Gourd is a vigorous vine with large white flowers. Eaten like squash & zucchini when picked young Many different shaped fruits. Dried fruits can be decorated and used for bowls and musical instruments.

Sow Spring-Summer.

How to Grow

Gourds are a fast growing rambling vine that can either be grown on the ground or if a trellis is provided they will make use of it. Gourds need good soil to do well so it is recommended to choose a fertile position where they will receive full sun. In extreme heat locations a part shade position can help reduce stress on their large leaf surface. A trellis can be anything from a wire fence, verandah or teepee made from tomato stakes, bamboo or even sturdy sticks. Sow your seeds below the climbing structure to give the vines a easy job of latching on. Ensure you do not over water them during the germination stage as this may cause rotting. Once germinated provide a good mulch later around the plant. During the growing season you may need to assist the plant with latching onto your structure.

Pests are minimal when growing gourds. 

Sow spring-summer direct into garden or pots then transplant at 8cm high.

Packet contains approx 30 seeds.

3 Seeds/gram.

90 days to harvest

Uses

Harvest young gourds when they are 3-5cm thick for use similar to that of zucchini and squash. Once they get larger then this the flesh is not as pleasant for eating so it is best to let them fully mature to be used dried. Allow them to turn from green to grown/grey on the plant and then dry further under cover. Once the shell is dry you can remove the seeds and use the gourd for things like a water pail, creative art or as a musical instrument.