Snake Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria)

You will get 10 seeds of SNAKE GOURD (Lagenaria siceraria) for planting.

Snake Gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) is an exotic vegetable that is part of the gourd family. It is a fast-growing, annual vine that produces long, slender fruits with a unique snake-like appearance. The fruits can be harvested when they are young and tender, or left to mature and used for decorative purposes. Snake Gourd is a popular crop in many parts of Asia and Africa, where it is valued for its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.

This gourd thrives in warm climates with plenty of sunlight and moisture. To grow Snake Gourd from seed:

• Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in well-drained soil after the last frost has passed.
• Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and provide plenty of sunshine.
• Thin seedlings to one plant per 18 inches when they reach 4 inches tall.
• Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks once flowers appear.
• Harvest fruits when they are young and tender, usually about 60 days after planting.
• For decorative purposes, allow fruits to mature on the vine until their skin hardens, then harvest them before the first frost.

Snake Gourd requires regular watering during dry spells but can tolerate some drought conditions. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, with plenty of organic matter added to improve drainage and aeration. This gourd also benefits from a light mulch layer around the base of the plants to conserve moisture and keep weeds at bay.

Snake Gourd is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. When eaten fresh or cooked, it has a mild flavor that pairs well with other vegetables in stir fries or curries. It can also be pickled or dried for later use. This versatile gourd is sure to become a favorite in your garden!