About this item

• Feature. The Bottle Gourd is a vigorous, annual, running or climbing vine with large leaves and a lush appearance. The thick stem is furrowed longitudinally. The vine is branched and climbs by means of tendrils along the stem.
• Applications. Young bottle gourd squash offers a mild flavor reminiscent of summer squash and cucumber with a firm texture. It can be sauteed, fried, pickled or grilled. Add cubed Bottle gourd to curries or grate and add to batter for quick breads, cakes and fritters.
• Planting time. Start at least four weeks before the date when the last frost was last year. Wait for the soil temperature to be at least 65 °F before planting, which will help them grow faster.
• Sow. Sow seeds after the last frost; plant them ? inch deep in raised beds or mounds. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. The sprouts should emerge within 10-14 days.
• Fast-growing. Bottle Gourd grows fast in 7-11(USDA) that it may begin to flower only 2 months after seeding and their stems can reach a length of 9 m in the summer.
• Cultivation. It requires plenty of moisture in the growing season and a warm, sunny position, sheltered from the wind. It can be cultivated in small places such as in a pot, and allowed to spread on a trellis or roof.
• Sun. Bottle gourds thrive in warm and bright spots since it helps them develop large leaves and vines. Find a spot in your yard that receives sunlight most of the day to keep your gourd growing.
• Water. In the absence of rain, water the plants slowly and deeply with at least 1 inch of water. Mulching around the base of the plants retains soil moisture.