Gourd Seeds - Emerald - Hybrid

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Other Common Names: Luffa plant, or luffa gourd.

How to Grow Emerald Gourd

Seed pre-treatment and germination are recommended: pre-soak the seeds in hot water at 113-131°F(45-55°C) for 20 minutes, then soak them in warm water at 85°F (30°C) for 24 hours. The optimum germination temperature is 85-89°F (30-32°C). Growers in zones 5 and 6 should start their seedlings indoors before the last frost, harden off the seedlings, and then transplant them to their final growing destination. Growers in zone 7 and above can direct sow. Luffa Gourds don’t transplant well, be sure to get the seeds or seedlings to their permanent growing space as early as possible.

The Emerald Luffa Gourd does best with a frame or trellis to ascend during the growing season. Temperatures below 50℉ will damage the plant. Luffa gourds will produce better with ample amounts of nitrogen. Incorporate additional nitrogen if necessary (through a fertilizer) or intercrop with a legume such as a soybean plant. Prune the plant as it grows to have a single lateral vine. In conditions with a long growing season, shed the first few blooms; this permits the plant to establish better before fruiting.

Harvesting Emerald Gourd

For eating, harvest the gourds when they are vibrant green, firm to the touch, and less than six inches long. To obtain a shower loofah harvest, leave the gourds on the plant until they are brown and dry. Then, peel or break the skin off and remove the seeds.

Culinary Tips

Prepare the luffa gourd similar to squash or okra. Saute, stew, or stir-fry the young, tender flesh for a nutritious dish.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“I have learned with many plants in this family that some dieback of the early leaves is normal. Don’t be alarmed if some of your leaves turn brown and dry. Just remove them and keep going!”

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

"How To Germinate Hard Gourd Seeds"

Seeds Per Package

• 2 g packet - Approximately 10 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 140 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 560 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 2,240 Seeds