Bottle gourd, also known as calabash, is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is widely grown and consumed in many parts of the world. If you are planning to grow this vegetable in your garden, it is important to know the best time to sow the seeds. In this article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about the sowing time of bottle gourd.
Bottle gourd is a warm-season crop and requires warm soil to germinate and grow. It is usually sowed in the late spring or early summer when the soil temperature has reached about 20°C. In general, the best time to sow bottle gourd is between March and May in most regions of the world.
However, the exact sowing time may vary depending on the climate and growing conditions of your region. In cooler regions, it is recommended to sow the seeds indoors in containers about four weeks before the last expected frost date. This will give the seeds a chance to germinate and grow into healthy seedlings before the outdoor growing season begins.
On the other hand, in warmer regions with a longer growing season, you can directly sow the seeds outdoors in the garden once the soil has warmed up. Make sure the soil is well-draining and fertile, and the planting area receives at least six hours of daily sunlight.
When sowing the bottle gourd seeds, make sure to plant them about 1-2 inches deep and 3-4 inches apart from each other. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not wet, as overly wet soil can lead to root rot and other fungal infections.
In summary, the best time to sow bottle gourd is during the late spring or early summer when the soil temperature has reached about 20°C. For cooler regions, starting the seeds indoors about four weeks before the last expected frost date is recommended. Direct sowing is possible in warmer regions with a longer growing season, providing the soil is well-draining and fertile. Lastly, regular watering is crucial to ensure healthy growth and a good harvest.