Luffa Gourd Seeds

Luffa gourds are vigorous, climbing plants producing long, cylindrical fruits that can be harvested young for cooking or left to mature into natural sponges.

 

When young, the tender gourds are delicious in stir-fries and curries, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavour similar to courgettes. When fully ripened and dried, the fibrous interior transforms into a biodegradable sponge, perfect for household use.

 

This fast-growing vine thrives in warm conditions, making it ideal for greenhouse cultivation or sunny outdoor spaces.

With broad green leaves and bright yellow flowers, it also adds an ornamental touch to trellises, fences, and arbors.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 1 gram

 

Sow: March – May (indoors), April – June (outdoors in warm climates)

Germination: 7 – 14 days

Soil: Rich, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH

Height: Climbs up to 3 m

Harvest: July – October

Companion Plants: Beans, Sunflowers, Corn

Avoid Planting With: Potatoes, other heavy feeders

Support growth with trellises or stakes for best results.

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination.

 

Start indoors in early spring by planting seeds 1 cm deep in pots filled with moist, well-draining compost. Keep in a warm location at 20–25°C until seedlings appear. Once strong enough, harden off and transplant outdoors after the last frost.

 

For direct sowing, wait until the soil has warmed in late spring. Space plants 50–60 cm apart in a sunny, sheltered spot with plenty of support for climbing vines. Water regularly and feed with a high-potash fertiliser to encourage fruiting.

 

 

Harvest young fruits for cooking when 10–15 cm long, or leave them to mature fully, allowing the skin to dry before peeling to reveal the fibrous sponge.

 

 

A rewarding plant that provides both food and sustainable sponges, luffa gourds make a fascinating and useful addition to any garden!

 

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