AGRILABH BOTTLE GOURD SAMRAT SEEDS

AGRILABH BOTTLE GOURD SAMRAT SEEDS

Calabash, also known as bottle gourd, white-flowered gourd, long melon, birdhouse gourd, New Guinea bean and Tasmania bean, is a vine grown for its fruit. It can be either harvested young to be consumed as a vegetable

1. Prepare the Soil:

• Samrat bottle gourd thrives in well-drained, fertile soil. Prepare your garden bed or container by loosening the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and mixing in well-rotted compost or organic matter for improved fertility.

2. Germination of Seeds:

• Start the seeds indoors in seed trays or small pots, or you can sow them directly in the garden if the climate is warm and frost-free.
• Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and space them 12-18 inches apart.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
• Samrat bottle gourd seeds typically germinate within 7-10 days when the soil temperature is around 70°F (21°C) or higher.

3. Transplant Seedlings:

• Once the seedlings have grown to about 3-4 inches tall and have a couple of true leaves, transplant them into your garden or larger pots if you’re growing them in containers.
• Ensure appropriate spacing, allowing each plant enough room to spread.

4. Provide Support:

• Bottle gourd plants are vigorous climbers, so provide a trellis or support system for them to climb. You can also plant them near a fence or use stakes.

5. Sunlight and Watering:

• Samrat bottle gourd plants require full sun, which means they need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plant to prevent wetting the leaves, which can lead to diseases.

6. Fertilization:

• Bottle gourd plants benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer every 3-4 weeks during the growing season.

7. Pruning:

• Trim the plant as needed to encourage better air circulation and reduce disease risk.
• Remove any yellow or dead leaves.

8. Pest and Disease Management:

• Bottle gourd plants can be susceptible to pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap if necessary.
• Keep an eye out for signs of diseases such as powdery mildew and treat them promptly.

9. Harvesting:

• Samrat bottle gourds are typically ready to harvest 60-80 days after planting, depending on weather conditions and care.
• Harvest the gourds when they reach the desired size (usually 6-8 inches in length) and their skin is still tender and easily pierced with a fingernail.
• Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the gourds from the vine, leaving a short stem attached.