Seed Depth: 1 inch

Seed Spacing: 18–24 inches

Row Spacing: 4–6 feet

Sunlight: Full sun

Days to Sprout: 7–14 days

Days to Maturity: 110–140 days

Growth Habit: Vining climber

Sunlight: Full sun for maximum growth and fruit development.

Soil Type: Rich, well-drained soil with plenty of compost.

When to Plant: After all frost danger has passed and soil is warm (70°F+).

Direct Sowing: Sow seeds at depth and keep evenly moist until sprouting.

Indoor Sowing: Start 4–6 weeks before last frost; transplant gently to avoid root disturbance.

Succession Planting: Not needed; loofah is a long-season crop.

Watering: Deep, consistent watering during hot weather.

Feeding: Apply compost or balanced fertilizer early and midseason.

Mulching: Helps retain moisture and reduce weed pressure.

Pruning / Staking: Encourage upward growth with trellises; prune side shoots if space is limited.

General Maintenance: Support heavy fruits as needed and remove damaged gourds.

When to Harvest:

• For eating: When young and under 6 inches.
  
• For sponges: When gourds turn yellow-brown and feel lightweight.
  

How to Harvest: Cut from vine with pruners; handle mature gourds gently.

Storing the Crop:

• Edible: Refrigerate and use within a week.
  
• Sponges: Peel, wash seeds out, and dry thoroughly before storing.

When to Collect: From fully mature, dried gourds at season’s end.

How to Collect: Break open dried gourds, remove seeds, and allow to dry fully.

Storing Seeds: Store in a cool, dry place; viable for 3–5 years.