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Gourd Seeds
Gourd Seeds for Sale by Gurney's
Gourd Varieties: Choosing the Right Gourd Seeds
When selecting from our gourd seeds for sale, consider how you want to use your gourds. Some gourds are smaller and quite colorful, making the ideal for fall decorations. Other gourds are larger and more utilitarian and can be used for birdhouses or bowls. We even offer the Luffa Gourd which can be used as a natural sponge. Most gourd vines take up quite a bit a space, but we offer some varieties with more compact habits that are ideal for gardeners with limited space.
Getting Started with Gourd Seed
Gourds are warm season, annual vine crops that require plenty of space, well-drained soil and full sun, or 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Gourds can also be grown on a trellis or arbor. When growing gourds in the garden, take into account their long growing season and plan accordingly. Here's some additional information about growing gourd seed.
When to Plant Gourd Seeds
Gourds don't like cold weather and don't germinate well in cold soil. If directly sowing gourd seeds into the garden, wait to plant until all danger of spring frost has passed and the soil is warm If starting gourd seeds indoors, wait until all danger of frost has passed before transplanting seedlings to the garden.
How to Plant Gourd Seeds
Like other vine crops, gourd seeds are usually planted in hills at a rate of 4-6 seeds per hill. Plant gourd seeds about 1 inch deep and water well. Gourd seeds started indoors should be planted at the same depth. For more information about starting seeds indoors, visit How to Start Vegetable Seeds Indoors
How to Germinate Gourd Seeds
Because gourd seeds have hard seed coats, they can take 1-6 weeks to germinate. To speed up the germination process, soak the gourd seeds in water for up to 24 hours before sowing.
How to Grow Gourd from Seeds
If you live in an area with a long growing season, we recommend directly sowing gourd seeds into the garden. Gourd plants don't like to have their roots disturbed. If transplanting seedlings, avoid disturbing their roots.
How to Harvest Gourd Seeds
Gourds should be harvested when they are fully mature and before the first fall frost. They are ready for harvest when the stem is brown and dry. Use a knife or shears to cut the stem.
How to Dry Gourds
Wipe the gourd with a cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove soil and any soil-borne bacteria. If the gourd is really dirty, wash it in warm, soapy water and rinse with a household disinfectant that is diluted with clean water. Dry the gourds on newspapers in a warm, dry place with good air circulation. Space the gourds out so that they do not touch each other. Do not let dew fall on the gourds at night. The drying process usually takes at least 4 weeks.
How to Preserve Gourd Seeds
After using your gourds for fall decorations, you can break them open and scoop out the seeds. Wash the seeds and allow to dry. Once dry, make sure you label the gourd seeds for planting the following year.
