Lagenaria siceraria. 75 days. Open-pollinated.
Long Mottled Green Gourd is an open-pollinated variety native to Southeast Asia.
Vines are vigorous and high-yielding, often growing over 15 feet in length with an average of 8 gourds per vine, so planting near a fence or trellis is highly recommended.
Fruits have smooth, bright-green skin flecked with white and can grow up to 8 to 12 inches long and 2 to 4 inches in diameter. Their flesh is white and crisp with mild, slightly sweet flavor similar to cucumber.
Harvest young, tender fruits for use in stir-fries, soups, and stews, or allow the gourds to harden on the vine to use as a water container or for an ornamental decoration.
Long Mottled Green Gourd
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 4 to 12 Light Requirement: Full sun Soil Type: Nutrient rich, well drained Sow Depth: 1 inch Plant Spacing: 36 to 48 inches Germination Temp: 70ºF or higher Germination Time: 10 to 14 days Maturation: 75 days Growing Tips
Start seeds 3 to 4 weeks before the last spring frost. Soak seeds overnight, then sow in peat pots, 2 to 3 seeds per pot. Use a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature above 70°F and thin to the strongest plants once the seedlings have obtained their first set of true leaves. Transplant outdoors once soil temperatures have warmed to at least 70°F.
If direct sowing, wait until outdoor soil temperatures are 70°F or warmer, then plant seeds 1 inch deep in hills, 5 seeds per hill with 5 feet between hills. Thin to the strongest plants once the seedlings have obtained their first set of true leaves.
For Lagenaria gourds, harvest mature fruits in the fall after several freezes.
Dry harvested gourds for 3-6 months in a moisture-free, well ventilated location. Take care not to let the gourds touch one another during drying, and check frequently for rot and mold. Mold can be wiped clean, but any rotted or soft gourds should be discarded. Drying is complete when the gourds feel light and hollow, and when the seeds can be heard rattling inside the gourd when shaken.