EXCELLENT birdhouses, water jugs and fun crafts! Smooth, tan, hard shell when mature. Large, 10-12" diameter rounded blossom end with a narrow neck and slightly bulbed stem end reaching 14"H. Vigorous 15-35' vines spreading 12'. Trellis vines for consistent fruit shape.
Gourds need to be planted early in your growing season. Leave on the vine until just before the first frost; they do not need to freeze. Pick when completely ripe, do not bruise fruit. Wash with a strong disinfectant to remove dirt and fungi - which may cause rot. Store in a cool dry place to cure out. Do not stack as they need air circulation.
Pollination occurs by insect, bird, wind, humans, or other natural mechanisms. Because there are no restrictions on the flow of pollen between individuals, open-pollinated plants are more genetically diverse. However, as long as pollen is not shared between different varieties within the same species, then the seed produced will remain true-to-type year after year.
This variety has a history of being passed down within a family or community, similar to the generational sharing of certain items like jewelry or furniture.
* This is an estimated guide. Conditions may vary considerably due to location.
125 days
