Gourd Snake Green
An unusual climbing vine variety producing long green fruits that can reach up to 2m long if left to fully mature. Widely grown in Asia there can be harvested and eaten whilst young and tender or left to mature for a great display when dried. The gourds can twist and curl and excellent for painting. The white flowers open in very early morning and are highly scented.
Cultivation advice Gourd Snake Green
- Soak seeds overnight before planting helps germination rates.
- Sow in warmth (65 degrees +) ½- ¾ inch deep from 4 weeks prior to the last frost under cover. (18-22 days to germinate)
- Remove weaker seedlings, as they do not transplant well.
- When 3-4 inches high gradually acclimatise outdoors after all danger of frost has passed.
- Site the plants in a warm sheltered position with good drainage, these will need full sun and warmth to thrive and sturdy support.
- Plant out at least 24apart and avoid feeding or the crop will be reduced. They will start slow and when established and with warmer weather will quickly accelerate.
- Keep moist throughout the summer and stop watering in autumn as fruits mature.
- In autumn, mature gourds will begin to turn brown and dry turning yellow/brown, feel light with the outside skin loose.
- Harvest remaining fruit before the first frost and mature in a warm well-ventilated position.
