Gourd Seeds - Nam Tao Yao - Hybrid

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Other Common Names: Hu la gua, edible bottle gourd, hyotan, calabash gourd, dudi, white-flowered gourd, moo gua, hu gua, hairy gourd, bottle gourd, hard-shelled gourd, hu lu gua, po gwa, poo gwa, oo lo kwa, snake gourd, upo, opo, or wu lo kwa.

How to Grow Nam Tao Yao Gourd

In warm climates, sow seeds after the last frost in a sunny location. For better germination rates, sprout seeds indoors by soaking in water for 24 hours and lightly clipping the tops. Wrap the seeds in a wet paper towel and keep them warm (between 75-85°F). Keep the soil moist and fertilize midseason. Low soil temperatures may result in reduced germination. Mound planting can improve drainage.

Don’t hesitate to prune back non-lateral branches and shoots that develop a few leaves past the fruits. Train this vine to climb vertical supports (such as a trellis) for more suitable air circulation and ease of harvest. This tenacious climber will grasp with surprising strength any structure nearby. May require hand pollinating for a more abundant harvest.

Harvesting Nam Tao Yao Gourd

For consumption, harvest well before the skin has hardened and the gourd is about 12-14 inches long. The fruits are usually about 4 inches in diameter. The younger the gourd is, the more tender it will be. If left to fully mature, the gourds develop a shell for use as a container.

Culinary Tips

Bottle gourd flesh is popular in Asian cuisine. Young leaves and shoot tips are edible and cooked like greens. Saute young tender gourds with shrimp or add to soups and stir-fries.

Tips From Our Gardeners

“I have learned that watering these plants from above (with a sprinkler or hose) can greatly increase the chance of fungal and viral leaf diseases. Place the water source underneath the foliage; try drip irrigation or careful hose watering.”

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

"How To Germinate Hard Gourd Seeds"

Seeds Per Package

• 3 g packet - Approximately 10 Seeds
• 1 oz - Approximately 140 Seeds
• 4 oz - Approximately 560 Seeds
• 1 lb - Approximately 2,240 Seeds
• 5 lb - Approximately 11,200 Seeds