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Bitter Melon Seeds, Ganjyu
(Momordica charantia). An extra-large light green heirloom from Japan. Fruit is large and uniform with a great flavor. The bitter melon is a dietary staple on the island of Okinawa, famous for its people’s longevity. The Okinawan people have been known for great health and record-breaking longevity for almost 1,000 years, due largely to their healthy diet. Bitter melon, called Goya in Japan, has been identified as a crucial staple of the famous Okinawan longevity diet, which is also part of the Blue Zone Diet. Goya champuru is a popular Okinawan stir fry bitter melon recipe, very commonly eaten by Okinawa’s centenarian residents. We love this vitamin-rich, miraculous fruit.
- Annual
- Sprouts in 7–21 days
- 75–85 days to maturity
- Full sun
- Planting depth: 1 inch
- Plant spacing: 24 inches
- Ideal temperature: 75 to 90°F
- Frost hardy? No
Growing Tips
Ganjyu bitter melon is a prolific climbing vine that flourishes in hot, humid conditions and benefits from consistent care. Use a tall trellis to support vigorous vine growth and promote straighter fruits. Mulching helps retain moisture and deter weeds. Harvest fruits early for best flavor, before they become too mature and overly bitter.
When to Grow
Begin seeds indoors 4–6 weeks before your last frost date or direct sow when soil has warmed to at least 70°F. Ganjyu bitter melon requires a long, warm growing season. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'
How to Sow and Plant
Soaking seeds overnight and nicking or splitting the tough outer seed coat may improve germination. Plant 1/2 to 1 inch deep in fertile, well-draining soil rich in compost. Provide spacing of 12 to 18 inches between plants, and set up a sturdy trellis at planting time to accommodate fast-growing vines and optimize space and sunlight.
How to Grow
Maintain consistently moist soil, especially during flowering and fruiting stages. Water at the base to avoid wet foliage and reduce fungal risk. Feed monthly with an organic balanced fertilizer. Train vines onto trellises and prune excess foliage to promote airflow and manage plant size for better fruit development.
How to Save
- Allow fruits to fully ripen on the vine until skin turns orange and splits.
- Remove seeds and rinse off pulp under running water.
- Dry seeds thoroughly in a shaded, well-ventilated area for 1–2 weeks.
- Store in a cool, dry, dark place in an airtight container.
- Label with date and variety name for future planting.
FAQ
Can Ganjyu bitter melon be grown in containers?
Yes, you can grow Ganjyu bitter melon in large containers (minimum 5 gallons) with proper drainage and support. Use nutrient-rich soil and place the container in full sun for best results.
How is Ganjyu different from other bitter melons?
Ganjyu bitter melon is known for its long, deeply ridged fruits and slightly milder bitterness compared to other varieties. It’s especially popular in Asian cuisine for its tender texture and distinct flavor.
Do Ganjyu bitter melons need pollination?
Yes, like other cucurbits, Ganjyu bitter melon relies on pollinators such as bees for fruit set. Hand pollination may be helpful in areas with low pollinator activity to improve yields.
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