Cleaning
gourds requires a pan / tub to hold water with some Clorox (10-15%), a
steel wool pad or scrub brush. Let the outside of the gourd float in the
tub to soak / loosen the dry mold on the gourd surface. Scrub until you
have loosened the dry mold. Rinse, and look for missed areas : repeat
process. Then Leave in the sun or dry area for 24 hrs. to assure dry
surface. You can then decorate in any number of ways.
When
do I pick my gourds?
Harvesting of gourds should be in the fall or early winter. The
vines will die back and the mature gourds will be hanging on the vine. It
is not essential to get them picked right away. But you may want to
protect them from rodents.
How
do I know when the gourd is dried or what is the drying process?
It is recommended to cure your mature gourds in a well-ventilated
area, perhaps a barn/garage/carport. Gourds are 90% water when freshly
harvested and it takes time for the water to permeate through the tough,
hard shell. They will become moldy and rather disgusting to look at or be
around, another good reason to leave in the barn or garage. If the gourd
shrivels, throw it away. However, they should become light in weight
after a few months of curing.
What
is the origin of the gourd?
The species curbit lageneria is from Africa.
What
is the growing season or the best time to purchase gourd seeds?
Growing
Gourds is rather simple. They are vigorous growers and require
plenty of space to spread (140 – 200 square feet per plant). They
prefer loam or sandy soil. Regular irrigation and light
fertilization should be enough to get your plants growing well. If
you are in the Northern states it may be necessary for you to start your
plants in pots indoors to achieve a crop, since they require 120 days of
warm winter. Moths and other night traveling insects pollinate them,
since the blooms open at night and early evening.
Where
is our warehouse located and what are driving directions?
The
Gourdgeous Farm Office is located in
Bradenton, FL :
SR 64 E (exit 220) or SR 70 E (exit
217) 10 miles from I-75
Turn on CR 675 E
Turn in ~ 2 or 3 miles
View Map
Note: We advise calling to make appointment
before driving for assurance of someone available to help you
(941-228-9289).
What
are our hours of operation?
Open By Appointment - call or email to set up with 24 hour notice for
Mon - Sat between 9 am and 4 pm
Can I purchase gourds at the
Bradenton Facility ?
Gourds are available for ‘hands-on’
purchasing.
Where is our
farm in Missouri?
Our farm in Missouri is located in Bertrand,
near Sikeston, which is in the boot hills area. Gourds will be available to purchase soon - visit www.muellersgreenhouses.com for details.
Do we ship out of the United States?
At this time we are not equipped to ship out
of the country.
Can I Return a product if I
change my mind?
Returned items are subject to a 10% re-stock fee. You will be credited
upon arrival of returned items in original condition. You will be
responsible for any return shipping costs. Credit card orders will
receive credit to card. Check or Money Orders will receive check. |
