Wings and Warts

STARTING SEEDS

To start seeds early: Several weeks before last spring frost date, sow 2 seeds each, 1 inch deep, in individual pots of potting mix. Keep warm and moist and provide a strong light source. When seedlings are well-established and outside temperatures are above 50°, pinch to one plant per pot and acclimate them to outdoor conditions. Transplant seedlings at sunny garden edges to ramble or 12 inches apart along a sturdy fence or trellis to form a lush canopy.

Start seeds outdoors: only in areas with a very long growing season. Plant after night temperatures stay above 50°. In full sun, sow seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows 4 feet apart. Thin seedlings to final spacing 1 foot apart. Or, plant 6 to 8 seeds in hills 8 feet apart, thinning to 3 or 4 per hill and allowing vines to ramble or grow them up fences, trellises or tepees.

GROWING NOTES

Gourds need full sun, very rich fertile soil and warm temperatures. For earliest and best yields, hand-pollinate gourds: break off a blooming male flower and dust pollen onto fresh female flowers (the ones with small fruits at the base). Repeat as new flowers appear. Pollinated fruits start growing larger within several days. Gourds are mature when the tendril next to the stem turns brown and rinds are tough. Harvest with several inches of stem. Dry in a well-ventilated place.