Description

Botanical Interests' Birdhouse Gourd Seeds (Lagenaria siceraria) yield large, hard-shelled gourds ideal for crafting lasting birdhouses or decorative projects. With 10'–16' vines, these frost-sensitive annuals thrive when grown on sturdy trellises or the ground, producing light green gourds that mature into tan-colored, 10″–12″ diameter birdhouses after drying. These versatile gourds can be painted, carved, or drilled like wood, making them perfect for creative, long-lasting projects. Not only will they make a beautiful addition to your garden, but they also attract hummingbirds, adding life to your space.

11 seeds.

Variety Info:

Botanical Name: Lagenaria siceraria
Days to Maturity: 95–110 Days
Family: Cucurbitaceae
Native: Zimbabwe
Hardiness: Frost-sensitive annual
Plant Dimensions: 10'–16' vines
Variety Information: Light green gourds have a 10″–12″ diameter, round base with narrower neck. Turns tan when dried.

Sowing Info:

When to Sow Outside: RECOMMENDED. 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, and when soil temperature is at least 60°F, ideally 70°F.
When to Start Inside: 2 to 4 weeks before your average last frost date, recommended for areas with short growing seasons. Sow in biodegradable pots that can be planted directly in the ground.
Days to Emerge: 5 – 10 days
Seed Depth: 1″
Seed Spacing: 4 seeds per mound
Thinning: When 3″ tall, thin to 3 per mound

Growing Info:

Harvesting: Hard-shelled gourds should remain in the garden as long as there is any life left in the vines. Some gourd growers leave gourds in the garden during the winter, which adds to their characteristics for craft projects. Use a sharp knife or pruners to cut stem leading to gourd, leaving 1″– 3″ of stem for a handle.