When is the best time to sow gourds?

Gourd sowing time

The small gourd, also known as the waist gourd, is a herbaceous plant of the Cucurbitaceae family and the genus Cucurbitacin. It can be sown in spring. The sowing time will be slightly different in different planting locations. It can be sown in the open field in March in the south, and a little later in the north, generally in April.

How to sow small gourd

The growing period of small gourd is very long. It is necessary to apply sufficient base fertilizer when turning the soil. You can apply more decomposed manure, water it thoroughly once, stir it evenly, then dig holes and plant the seeds. Keep the soil moist during the germination period. Generally, the seedlings will emerge in a week. After germination, use bamboo poles to build a frame and it will grow quickly.

Key points for planting small gourd

1. Watering: Small gourd is suitable for planting in fertile, loose, well-drained acidic soil mixed with soil and miscellaneous fertilizers. The soil needs to be kept moist during the growth period, but water accumulation is not allowed to occur, so as to avoid root rot and affect its growth.

2. Fertilization: The gourd needs timely fertilization during its growth period. You can apply decomposed sesame paste residue and bean cake fertilizer. It needs to be diluted with water before use. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be added during the budding period.

3. Shaping and pruning: The gourd grows vigorously and has strong climbing ability. When the plant grows to about 1 meter, you can pinch off the top 3-4 nodes from the root and pinch off the branches without buds in time.

Note: The small gourd has a great demand for water and fertilizer, and needs to be watered and fertilized in time. Each time you apply fertilizer, do not pour it directly on the roots. It is best to dig holes and apply it. You can water it once after each application, so that the roots can absorb it better.

Time for small gourd to mature

The growth cycle of small gourds is 100 to 120 days, and the harvest time is from July to August. When the vines become dry and the gourds turn yellow, they can be harvested. Each time you pick them, you need to cut them with the stems, which can enhance their ornamental value.