SEED AVAILABLE:
- Sow 3 weeks before last frost
- Easy warm germinator
- 7-10 days to germinate
- 10 seeds
PLANT PROFILE:
Lagenaria are large vines that grow much like squash and cucumbers (same family) but produce unique fruits that dry into hard-shelled gourds of various shapes and great utility. These seeds are from an Indian source and have a large, open shape which is perfect for a birdhouse or a large (35cm or 14in tall) container. They are also edible when fresh. Directly sowing seeds is possible in warm, well drained, rich soil but, in our Zone 6 climate, we start the seeds inside, sowing 3 in large, "hanging basket"-type pots so that they easily transplant as a ready-made mound. Provide a sturdy trellis support (we use a 3m or 10' tall tripod) and water regularly. Lagenaria has a beautiful, large white flower that opens at night.
Lagenaria siceraria (Bottle gourd)
To obtain dried gourd for birdhouses, etc., harvest the fruit after the vine has withered but before frosts occur. Leave a portion of the stem attached. The curing process takes 3-6 months and gourds can develop surface mold which can be halted with a bleach solution (or just wash in and enjoy the blotchy colouring). Hang the gourds in a warm, airy place to dry (or lay on newspaper and rotate frequently). Throw out gourds that wrinkle or develop soft spots during the curing process. Once the gourd rattles when given a good shake it is ready to cut for seed removal and making something useful.
