Bottle Gourd Seeds – Lauki / Opo / Cucuzzi, 20 Seeds

Start a warm-season vegetable garden project with this pack of 20 bottle gourd seeds. Train the vigorous vines over a sturdy trellis and harvest young, tender gourds for cooked dishes.

Features

• Package: 20 bottle gourd seeds.
• Botanical name: Lagenaria siceraria.
• Also known as lauki, opo, cucuzzi, and calabash.
• Plant type: Warm-season annual climbing vine.
• Seeds for planting only; fresh vegetables, live plants, and supports are not included.

Sowing Instructions

1. Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 12–24 hours before sowing.
2. Direct-sow after frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C).
3. Choose full sun and fertile, well-draining soil enriched with compost. Sow approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep.
4. Keep soil evenly moist, not waterlogged. Germination commonly takes 1–3 weeks in warm conditions.
5. Space plants approximately 3–5 feet (90–150 cm) apart along a strong support.
6. For a head start in short-season areas, sow in individual pots indoors 3–4 weeks before planting out. Gradually acclimate seedlings and transplant carefully without disturbing roots.

Trellis Support

• Install a firmly anchored, heavy-duty trellis or arbor before vines spread.
• Choose a framework strong enough to carry mature vines and developing fruit; lightweight decorative supports may bend or collapse.
• Guide young vines toward the framework and secure loosely with soft ties while tendrils establish a grip.
• Support heavier fruit with wide fabric slings attached to the frame, leaving room for growth.
• Keep hanging fruit clear of walkways and check the structure regularly.

Care & Harvest

• Provide at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily and a long, warm growing season.
• Water deeply at soil level, especially during flowering and fruit development. Mulch to conserve moisture without covering stems.
• Feed according to the vegetable fertilizer label; avoid excessive nitrogen.
• Allow pollinators access to flowers. If fruit set is poor, transfer pollen from an open male flower to an open female flower in the evening using a clean, soft brush.
• Check foliage for pests and maintain airflow around vines.
• Harvest gourds while young and tender, before the skin hardens, using clean pruners rather than pulling the vine.

Kitchen Safety

Cook young gourds before eating. Do not consume bitter-tasting bottle gourds or their juice; discard the entire bitter fruit. Cooking does not make a bitter gourd safe to eat.

Seed Disclaimer

Germination is affected by temperature, environment, and planting techniques. We sell seeds only and do not guarantee 100% germination.