Q.Starting GOURD seeds
I have tried many times & multiple ways to get fancy gourd seeds to germinate, eg. Birdhouse gourds, lg round gourds. I can’t get them to germinate!! I have even sanded down the seeds to try & make it easier for them to germinate-but no luck!! I have been able to grow the lg warty pumpkin like gourds, however that is it. There are many kinds of these fancy lg gourds that I would love to grow, dry & paint etc. Can you help me?? Thankyou & happy growing!!
Soaking your gourd seeds overnight in water prior to planting will help increase germination. Sometimes gourds take much longer to germinate that the suggested time table in the packet. My last batch of snake gourds took two months to germinate because the night temperatures were too cold. Don't get too discouraged. Soil temperature and planting depth are important considerations. Gourds transplant well so you can start them in small pots and transplant when they are 3-4 inches tall. Be sure to use potting soil and not planter mix in the pots. Another option is to soak the seeds then place in moist but not soggy paper towel in a baggie (not sealed) and watch for germination, then transplant at the correct depth. I do this on my kitchen counter.
So your seeds are not germinating?
These articles will help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/when-to-start-seeds.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/propagation/seeds/soilless-seed-mix-info.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/gourd/growing-gourd-plants.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/gourd/luffa-gourd-planting.htm
