Ornamental Gourd 'Small Spoon'

15 seeds

How to Seed Ornamental Gourd ‘Small Spoon’ (Cucurbita pepo)

1. Best Time to Sow (Gulf Region):

   • Outdoors: From February to April and again in September to October, when daytime temperatures are between 22–30°C (72–86°F).

   • Avoid sowing during May to August, as extreme Gulf heat can damage seedlings and cause flower drop.

   • In mild coastal areas, it can also be started indoors in late winter and transplanted outdoors when temperatures are moderate.

2. Sowing Depth:
   Sow seeds 2–2.5 cm deep directly into the soil.
   If starting in pots, use biodegradable ones to avoid root disturbance when transplanting.

3. Soil:
   Prefers rich, fertile, and well-drained soil with good organic matter.
   Ideal Gulf mix: 40% garden soil + 30% compost + 20% peat moss + 10% perlite.
   Add a layer of organic mulch (such as cocopeat or straw) to retain moisture in the Gulf’s dry air.

4. Light & Temperature:

   • Germination temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F).

   • Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily).

   • Protect young seedlings from strong afternoon sun in hotter inland areas.

5. Germination Time:
   Seeds germinate in 5–10 days under warm, moist conditions.

6. Transplanting & Spacing:

   • If started in pots, transplant when seedlings have 2–3 true leaves.

   • Space plants 50–70 cm apart in rows 1–1.2 m apart, allowing vines to spread.

   • For container growth, use a large pot (at least 30 cm deep) with support if needed.

7. Growing Tips for Gulf Climate:

   • Sunlight: Prefers full sun but appreciates partial afternoon shade in extreme heat.

   • Watering: Water deeply and regularly, keeping soil consistently moist — avoid waterlogging.

   • Feeding: Apply organic fertilizer or compost every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.

   • Support: Vines can be trained to climb a trellis or left to trail on the ground.

   • Harvesting:

     • Fruits mature in 80–100 days after sowing.

     • Harvest when the skin is firm and fully colored.

     • Dry the gourds in a shaded, airy place for several weeks before using them for decorations or crafts.

   • The ‘Small Spoon’ Ornamental Gourd produces miniature spoon-shaped fruits with unique patterns — perfect for autumn displays, crafts, and home décor.