OSC Seeds Gourds Luffa Pkg.

Approximately 10-11 seeds/package (10 seeds/gram)

These rambling, strong-growing vines can grow to 6 m or more in length. A structural support is required for the vines to grow on. Note that the chance of producing mature fruit in Zone 5a is very slim. For someone in this growing zone looking for a real challenge, you have found it here! The intrepid gardener will need to resort to their toolbox for such techniques and structures as: pre-planting soil solarization to advance soil warming, using raised beds, soil modification by adding large amounts of organic matter, wind shelters and both early and late season cold temperature shelters. Even after doing all that, successfully growing mature luffa in Zone 5a should not be considered in any way as guaranteed! Also spelled as Loofa or Loofah. The fibrous interior may be dried and treated for use as a sponge. Approximately 150 days to harvest.

Growing luffa requires patience and a long growing season, 120 to 140 days. Start seeds indoors one to two months before your last frost date. Sow scarified & soaked seed 2 cm deep in a soil-less mix and keep at 25° C for the 14-20 day germination period. Grow on under bright light and warm conditions until hardening off, and transplanting outside after the danger of frost has passed, and nighttime air temperature minimums are above 12° C. Space transplants 1 m apart near a structure that will allow the vines to climb. Vines can be grown on the ground, but they will tend to produce curved fruit. Seed can be sown directly into the ground in Zone 7, but garden soil temperature should be above 23° C. Start seed indoors when growing in Zone 6 or 5b. Growing luffa to maturity in Zone 5a or lower is a challenge, and typically does not produce usable fruit.

Luffa is monoecious. Female flowers are found mostly at the vine growing tips–avoid pruning. Insects are essential for proper fertilization and luffa sponge formation. Bees, moths, butterflies and beetles are the most common pollinators of luffa flowers.