Tri Leaf Luffa Gourd is an early-maturing variety, ready in 50-55 days after transplanting. It produces mid-sized smooth-skinned dischcloth gourds, 10-16 inches long and 3-5 inches in diameter, ideal for drying into sponges.
Tolerant to heat and disease, these open-pollinated gourds yield abundantly on 20-to-30-foot vines, perfect for trellises or fences. Enjoy lush foliage and yellow blossoms while harvesting versatile sponges for various tasks like scrubbing, washing, and cleaning.
Grow your own supply and share the bounty with friends and family!
The origin of gourds has been a subject of debate for decades. Archaeological findings seem to show that Asia first domesticated the gourd for use as a container, though Africa and several island nations such as Polynesia and New Zealand also have an early history of using gourds as fishing floats, bottles, or musical instruments.
Recent research shows that North America's gourds are nearly as old as those of Asia, which seems to suggest that early peoples who settled in the New World brought gourds with them.
• Scroll down for detailed growing info •
All Nimble NiteCap Seeds are:
• Heirloom
• Organic
• Non-GMO
• Open Pollinated
• Untreated
• US Grown
• growing instructions included
• Regular testing is conducted to uphold the highest germination standards, all the while employing appropriate seed storage techniques.
Sustainable Packaging & Shipping:
• NimbleNitecap seeds are packed in eco-friendly, compostable seed packets. Seed packets are printed in house with vegetable-based inks on biodegradable, recycled materials. (Small plastic bags are infrequently used to prevent the loss of very small seeds.)
• All orders are carefully packed and shipped with tracking via USPS First Class (or Priority, if selected) in padded ECOENCLOSE recycled and reusable mailers, or recycled boxes to protect your items in transit.
Most orders ship out the same or next business day! Please note that this time may be extended during peak season.
• FREE SHIPPING on all orders of $35 or more. Flat Rate shipping no matter how many packets you order.
• DIRECTIONS •
~ germination ~
For best germination, pre-soak the seeds in hot water at 115°F~ 130°F for 20 minutes, then soak them in warm water at 85°F for 24 hours.
Optimum germination temperature:86-90°F. Seeds should germinate between 7-14 days.
~ planting ~
When to sow outside:
2 to 4 weeks after average last frost and when soil temperatures are above 60° F.
When to start inside:
Recommended for cold winter climates. 2 to 4 weeks before average last frost. Seedlings don’t transplant well - use pulp pots and transplant directly into soil after carefully removing bottom of pot.
~ harvesting ~
For use as a sponge, gourds are ready to harvest when they turn brown, feel light, and rattle with loose seeds when shaken.
In shorter season climates, harvest the gourds and dry them for about 2 weeks or until the skin hardens and they turn brown.
In either case, then open the large end and shake out the seeds. Soak the gourd overnight or until the skin separates from the sponge. Remove the excess pulp and rinse in a 10% bleach solution. Allow to dry thoroughly.
