The Long Handled Dipper Gourd has a long, skinny, curving neck with a round bulbous end: can be cut and used as a ladle or dipper when dried. Grow on a trellis for straighter, longer handles, or try bending them into a knot when the fruit is young!

25 seeds

PLANTING

Lagenaria siceraria

Germination:7-10 Days

Germination Temperature:Optimum soil temperatures 70-90F. Planting in soil under 70Fmay result in poor germination.

Seed Sowing Depth:1 deep

SowingIndoors:3-4 weeks before the last frost. Sow 2-3 seeds per cells/pots, thin to the strongest seedling. We like to use individual biodegradable paper, peat, or cowpots because it provides the least amount of stress to the roots when transplanting. Transplant after last frost when the soil warms to 70F. Space36–48 apart, in rows 48-60 apart.

Sowing Outdoors:After the last frost when the soil reaches at least 70F. Sow 2-3 seeds per space/hill, 36-48 apart, in rows 48-60 apart.

CucurbitaGourds:Harvest mature gourds before cold weather. Color deepens and skin is hard. Frost or freezing conditions causes injury to skins. Keep in a cool, dark, dry place for curing.

LagenariaGourds:Harvest in the fall after a few frosts. Leaves and stemsshould be brownand driedandskin color faded. Require a long drying period; 3-6 monthsin a dry area with good ventilation. The gourds should not be touching each other. Check often for soft or rotten ones, discard them, and if mold forms, wipe it off. When the seeds rattle inside and feel light they are dried.

Tips:Heavy feeders, require high nitrogen. The Long Handled Dipper Gourd should be planted into fertile soil or amended with compost or manure. Heavy water needs, mulch, and supply adequate water, at least 1 per week for optimum growth.Vines can grow 15 feet or more. Grow on a trellis for more uniform, straight gourds and for more garden space.