How to grow Gourd

Learn how to grow Gourd like a pro with this comprehensive guide, including sun requirements, planting tips, and harvesting advice.

Gourd requires well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in. 

Plant Gourd in a full sun position. 

No, Gourd is not frost tolerant. 

Plant Gourd roughly 40cm apart.

Gourds is a warm season crops which are usually planted in spring once the danger of frost has passed. Seeds can be sown once soil temperatures reach at least 15°C (60°C). 

If transplanting, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn. 

Feed Gourd vines with a regular application of organic fertiliser throughout the season.

Harvest Gourds as late as possible. Gourd will not cure and store unless they are fully ripe. When harvesting, cut the stem keeping at least an inch of stem attached and move to a dry place to cure. 

Pests that affect Gourd include: Aphids, Army Worms, Cucumber Beetle, Cutworm, Flea Beetle, Spider Mites, Slugs, Snails, Leafminers, Squash Bug, Squash Vine Borer, Thrips, 28 Spotted Ladybug

Diseases that affect Gourd include: Blight, Mosaic Virus, Angular Leaf Spot, Anthracnose, Powdery Mildew, Verticillium Wilt, Bacterial Leaf Spot, Phytophthora Fruit and Crown Rot 

Gourd grows best on trellises or supports, keeping the fruits off the ground helps to prevent them from rotting on damp soil.