Gourd Seeds - Extra Long - Heirloom

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How to Grow Extra Long Gourd

To prepare gourd seeds, soak them for 24hrs before germinating on a moist paper towel in a sealed, dark container. 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 Extra Long Luffa Gourd requires a frame to climb up during the growing season. The plant will be damaged by temperatures below 50℉. Luffa gourds do well with plenty of nitrogen. Add nitrogen if necessary (through a fertilizer) or interplant with a nitrogen fixator such as a bean plant. Prune the plant as it grows to only have a single lateral vine. In conditions with a long growing season, clear away the first few blooms permitting the plant to establish better before fruiting.

Harvesting Extra Long Gourd

For eating, harvest the gourds when they are bright green and firm. For a shower loofah harvest, leave the gourds on the plant until they are brown and dry. Then, gently peel away the skin and shake out the seeds.

Culinary Tips

Prepare like squash or okra. Saute, stew, or stir-fry the young, tender gourds.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“Luffa gourds are excellent to grow with kids! Showing the children how to grow, harvest, and use the gourds can be so educational. Plus, they can eat the gourd and use it in the shower on the same day. How fun is that?”

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

"How To Germinate Hard Gourd Seeds"

Seeds Per Package

• 3 g packet - Approximately 15 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 140 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 560 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 2,240 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 11,200 Seeds