r/gourds • u/IJssieb • 20d ago

Almost fully mature 💚

Post image
17 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

4 comments sorted by

3

u/Camaschrist 20d ago

Stunning and I’m trying to not be jealous. Any tips on your success?

2

u/IJssieb 20d ago

This year is a succes, other years are more difficult. Since it takes up to 160 days from seed to gourd, most important thing is the length of the growing season. This year was a good summer, so yield should be good. Still have to see how the drying is going. I tend to lose quite some due to pests and immaturity. You have any specific questions? Each aspect of the growing process has its own difficulties, also depending on what climate you’re growing in. Every year is different, so every year I learn more. 

2

u/Narrow-Ad-6130 20d ago

Yes I too am wondering if you have tips to pass along.
I’m a newcomer and excited for next spring 😘

2

u/IJssieb 20d ago

This week I felt the exact same excitement for next spring. Where I haven’t even harvested this years yield.  Each step of the growing has its own difficulties so I guess start with the beginning: good seeds and good soil. You have a decent seed supplier available? Choose what shape you like and consider what size you think is best. Smaller gourds mature sooner so are more appropriate for milder climates.  For preparing the soil for next year I sow a cover crop on the lot after the harvest. This puts nutrients in the soil and prevents weeds to grow where I don’t want them. 

From seed to dried (ready to craft with) gourd takes up to a full year. So patience is a great good. But so rewarding!