| I planted Burpees Big Gourds Mixed this spring. They are fully mature but they are green as grass. Can you explain? Also on the seed pack it says that you can plant by an trellis or arbor. I have to say in regards to my gourds they are huge and heavy, their is no way they would be able to stay on the vine up in the air. Please comment. |
| In the Big Gourds Mix there are a variety of gourds of all different shapes and colors. It's possible that the seeds you planted, and the plants that survived to produce mature fruit, happened to be green varieties. I wonder, though, if your gourds didn't have enough time to fully mature in your growing season. Some are likely long-season vareties that may not develop their true, mature color until late in the season. Did the plants get going early in the season, or were you delayed in planting for some reason? Did they get full sun for optimum growth? I can't think of any other reasons why they never turned colors. You're right--the larger gourds would certainly weigh down the vines. To remedy this, first of all be sure you are using a very sturdy trellis. Then, use a piece of fabric to create a sling for each gourd--pantyhose works well for this purpose. Cradle the fruit in the sling, and tie it to the trellis. (I answered the earlier question you sent about the green gourds. Did you get the response on your e-mail? We are still testing our system, so if possible, could you e-mail me a reply, just so I know you got the answer? Thanks. Suzanne.) |
