white Bitter Melon Bitter Gourd Seeds| Hybrid | 10 Seeds
Bitter gourd, also known as karela, is a popular vegetable in many Asian cuisines. It is a warm-season crop that requires full sun and well-drained soil. Bitter gourd can be grown from seeds or seedlings.
To grow bitter gourd from seeds:
- Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting.
- Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep and 12 inches apart in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
- Seedlings will emerge in 7-10 days.
- Once the seedlings are 6 inches tall, thin them out so that they are spaced 24 inches apart.
To grow bitter gourd from seedlings:
- Plant the seedlings 24 inches apart in a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Water the seedlings regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy.
Bitter gourd care:
- Bitter gourd is a heavy feeder, so fertilize it every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- Bitter gourd plants need support, so provide a trellis or fence for them to climb.
- Water bitter gourd plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Bitter gourd pests and diseases:
Bitter gourd is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including aphids, whiteflies, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. To prevent pests and diseases, inspect your plants regularly and take steps to control them if necessary.
Harvesting bitter gourd:
Bitter gourd is ready to harvest when it is 6-8 inches long and the skin is dark green and firm. Harvest the fruits regularly to encourage the plant to produce more.
Tips for growing bitter gourd:
- Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
- Fertilize the plants regularly.
- Provide support for the plants to climb.
- Water the plants regularly, especially during hot weather.
- Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Inspect the plants regularly for pests and diseases.
- Harvest the fruits regularly to encourage the plant to produce more.