Basics

Ease of Growing
Easy
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
120-130 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
Vine
Hardiness
Tender

Gourds are quite frost tender and cannot be planted until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. Don't put them out before the temperature reaches 65˚ F daily.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Summer
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Gourds are sprawling plants, notorious for taking up a lot of room; so its best not to plant them in the middle of the intensive garden. They take a lot less space if grown vertically on trellises or cages, but then of course they cast a considerable amount of shade. Generally it is best to plant them in hills at the edge of the garden and let them run off into unused space. The site of an old compost pile by a wire fence is perfect. Once established they can compete with almost any plant, so long as their roots are in good soil and they are well fed and watered.

Outdoor Growing Temp
60°F - 90°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
65°F

Don’t plant out until all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up, about when the temperature reaches 65° F daily (when the Apple trees blossom.)

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
Moderate

The plants need an evenly moist soil for maximum productivity. The best way to water Squash is in the morning with a soaker hose or drip irrigation, as wet foliage can easily lead to fungal diseases, especially with cooler nighttime temperatures.

Water moderately early in development and heavier after fruits form.

Feeder
Heavy

High nitrogen. Moderate potassium. Moderate phosphorous. Gourds have a very vigorous root system, which may go down 6' in its search for nutrients.

Suitability
High heat, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
Yes

Grow in a container that is at least 24” in diameter. Keep plants well watered and fed in the container.

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Green/Tan
Fruit Size
12.0 - 14.0"
Plant Height
12.0 - 35.0"
Plant Diameter
20.0 - 30.0"
Hardiness Zone
4-11
Disease Resistance
-
Taste Profile

Not to be eaten.

Rotation Group
Fruits: Solanaceae + Cucurbits