Gourds have played a role in the daily life of many cultures as bottles, bowls, ladles, churns and musical instruments. They are thought to be one of the earliest cultivated species. Always grown for their utility value and not as a vegetable, gourds have been used for tools, containers, floats and utensils. Originating in Africa, they have been documented in South America at about 9000 BC.
In addition to the above uses, gourds are currently used extensively as an art form media.
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Approx 15-30 seeds per pack.
Planting Instructions
Outdoor Sowing Recommended
Space hills 4 - 6 ' apart for bush varieties and 8 -10' apart for large vining varieties.
When night temperatures stay above 55F, sow 6 seeds per hill, 1" deep. When seedlings are 6" tall, thin to the 2 or 3 strongest. Clip vines instead of pulling to avoid disturbing roots. Water slowly and deeply during dry weather.
Leave on vine until rinds are hard, then harvest. Store throughout winter in a dry place at 55 - 60* F.
When mature, the Luffa Gourd become a tough mass of cellulose fiber that makes a great scrubbing sponge. Germination is slow, sometimes taking 2-3 weeks. It grows slower than other gourds, as the roots develop first. Hot weather will speed up growth.
The gourds need time to dry to develop the vegetable sponge mass that they are known for. When dry the skin is peeled, seeds removed and rinsed.
100-150 days
Approx 20 seeds per pack
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In Stock
Will be shipped via: FIRST CLASS MAIL VIA U.S. MAIL
The Mini Bottle Gourd produces small dumbbell or hourglass shaped gourds with a larger bulb on the bottom and a smaller one on top. They are usually 1 1/2 to 6 in. in height and used as baby rattles in Southeast Asia. Great for smaller craft or art projects, ornaments, small bowls or vases.
120 days
Approx 20 seeds per pack
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In Stock
Will be shipped via: FIRST CLASS MAIL VIA U.S. MAIL
Acoma Rattle Gourd is originally from the Acoma Pueblo of New Mexico. Considered the earliest known domesticated plant. Large round gourds used for ceremonial rattles and for crafts. 8 in. wide, 3-4 in. tall, no neck.
200 days
Certified Organic
Approx 15 seeds per pack
Click on the stock number, photo, or name for more details and to order.
In Stock
Will be shipped via: FIRST CLASS MAIL VIA U.S. MAIL
