Whole and sliced Ganjyu Bitter Melon a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Ganjyu
Ganjyu Bitter Melon, whole and sliced
Bitter Melon Seeds, Ganjyu
Ganjyu Bitter Melon growing on vine
Ganjyu Bitter Melon halved showing seeds and blossoms
Whole and sliced Ganjyu Bitter Melon a white background.
Bitter Melon Seeds, Ganjyu
Ganjyu Bitter Melon, whole and sliced
Bitter Melon Seeds, Ganjyu
Ganjyu Bitter Melon growing on vine
Ganjyu Bitter Melon halved showing seeds and blossoms

Bitter Melon Seeds,
Ganjyu

4.610 ReviewsSKU: #BM116Min. seed count: 8
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Description

(Momordica charantia). An extra-large light green heirloom from Japan with great-flavored, uniform fruit. This bitter melon is a dietary staple on the island of Okinawa, famous for its people’s great health and record-breaking longevity thought to be largely due to their 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 popular among centenarians. We love the vitamin-rich, miraculous fruit!

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.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Momordica charantia
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
7–21
Days to Maturity
75–85
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
24 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

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 Seeds

  • 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 is an extra-large, light green Okinawan-type goya with uniform, great-flavored fruit. Pick it young, while the skin is still light green, for the best texture and the mildest bitterness.

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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