Here are 10 tips for planting bitter gourd seeds successfully, explained in a simple and easy-to-understand tone:
- Choose a sunny spot: Bitter gourd needs plenty of sunlight to grow well, so select a location that receives at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight every day.
- Prepare the soil: Bitter gourd prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Prepare the soil by digging it up to a depth of 6–8 inches and mixing in some compost or manure.
- Soak the seeds: Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to help speed up germination.
- Plant the seeds: Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and 3–4 inches apart in the prepared soil. Water the soil thoroughly after planting.
- Water regularly: Bitter gourd needs consistent moisture to thrive, so water the plants deeply once a week or more often if the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Mulch the soil: Putting mulch around plants can help keep water in the soil and stop weeds from growing.
- Fertilize regularly: Bitter gourd is a heavy feeder and needs regular fertilization to produce a good crop. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks.
- Provide support: Bitter gourd vines can grow up to 15 feet long, so provide a trellis or other support structure for the plants to climb on.
- Watch out for pests and diseases: Bitter gourd is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, so keep an eye out for any signs of damage and treat promptly.
- Harvest at the right time: Bitter gourd is ready to be harvested when the fruits are about 4-6 inches long and still green. Harvest regularly to encourage the plant to produce more fruit.
To plant bitter gourd seeds successfully, choose a sunny spot with soil that drains well, soak the seeds before planting, water regularly, mulch the soil, fertilize every two to three weeks, support the vines, watch out for pests and diseases, and pick the fruits when they are 4-6 inches long and green. By following these tips, you can grow a healthy bitter gourd plant and enjoy a good harvest.