Gourd Seeds - Bonanza. Heirloom, Non-GMO. Luffa acutangula. 80-90 days. Warm season annual. Also know as Chinese okra, this vigorous productive plant produces a high yield of edible fruit on strong, lateral branches. Fruit are 18" long, 2" in diameter and weigh just under a pound. The green-colored, ridged fruit is tender and tasty and matures 45 days after the flower sets. Requires a long, warm growing season. Prepare fertile, well drained soil. Sow seeds in spring/early summer after last frost in a warm, sunny location. The seed coat is hard and should be soaked in warm water for 24 hours or gently clip the seed tip to help the seed germinate. Hill planting: Form soil into a 1-ft. diameter mound 3-4' tall. Space mounds 4-6' apart. On each mound plant 1-2 seeds. Row planting: See spacing info in chart. Keep soil moist. Fertilize as needed. Hand pollination may be necessary. Train to climb a vertical support for better air circulation, straighter fruit and ease of harvest. To process for luffa sponges, allow gourds to hang on the vine until they are fully mature and the skin hardens/dries. Remove skin and seeds. Chinese okra is prepared like squash or okra. Use young tender gourds in sautes, stews and stir-fries. Apx. 140 seeds/ounce.
