Ornamental gourds- growing advise?

Discussion in 'Edible Gardening' started by Selleri, Oct 15, 2021.

  1. Selleri

    Selleri Koala

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    Has anyone grown ornamental mini gourds or pumpkins for decoration?

    It'd be great to get some advise on how best to grow them, the size of the plants, preserving tips etc.

    I just walked past a market stall with baskets full of all kinds, warty, stripey, Turk's turbans... they looked great so I'd like to give them a go next year.

    Thanks!
     
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    • JWK

      JWK Gardener Staff Member

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      I grow them to brighten up the veg plot. In the past I've grown them up a fence, the last two years on a cane wigwam. They are not difficult to grow, start from seed in late March April and potted on , then planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed (June). They need tieing in to begin with then half way up the canes they throw out clinging tendrils and climb like mad. So they need a bit of space, better if you can keep them growing upwards. Flying insects pollinate them, I have never needed to help them unlike their cousins; pumpkins and courgettes.
       
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        Last edited: Oct 15, 2021
      • JWK

        JWK Gardener Staff Member

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        I don't make any special effort to preserve them, I leave them on the plant and they dry naturally and last till the new year. In the past I brought a few indoors as a display.
         
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        • Selleri

          Selleri Koala

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          Thanks @JWK, sounds fairly easy :)

          I'll give them a try, it's so nice to test new things and the fruit can indeed look delightful.
           
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