I would say close to the end of March of this year, I decided to try my hand in growing purple martin gourd seeds in hopes of getting one or two gourds. Do you think I was a little too late in planting the seeds? I live in zone 9b. I planted them on the west side garden. Is there a possibility I will see gourds? I have seen several flowers a week or two ago and no gourds of yet.

Input please!

Has anyone grown purple martin gourd seeds and can give their input please?

Hi!

The Purple Martin gourds, or any hard shell birdhouse gourd, requires a season of at least 100 days on average. The longer the season, the better. I am in zone 5b, in Central NY, & have to start my seeds inside around April 1st to get any kind of decent crop. Gourds can be difficult to germinate, so snip off one of their ears, & soak them for 24 hours before planting, whether starting inside or direst sowing out side. They require full sun, all day long if possible. The vines are 30', so you will need to trellis them if you don't have a big plot. The photo I posted shows how I grow some of mine. I also have more arbors & 2 patches. Hope this helps.

All the best....

Anna