Gourd Seeds, Giant Bushel Basket
(Lagenaria siceraria). Would you like to be able to grow gourds that weigh over 150 pounds? How about 200 pounds? We did just that, and we will have a limited number of seeds available. To grow truly giant fruit, it is typically necessary to reduce the runners down to just one primary vine and to grow only one fruit per plant. It's a gargantuan gourd, perfect for competition growing or to impress your friends and family! These spectacular specimens can be used for craft projects, art pieces, or made into utilitarian containers. And this one happens to even be edible, with a crisp, clean, cucumber-like taste. You are in for a show, as the long vines meander across the garden and the fruit quickly swells to stunning sizes!
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150-180 days to maturity
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8-12 hours of full to partial sun
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Sprouts in 3-10 days
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Seed Depth: 1”
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Plant Spacing: 10’
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Ideal Temperature: 75-90 F
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Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips
The Giant Bushel Basket gourd is a massive heirloom variety. A sturdy trellis is recommended to support the large fruit, but it can also be grown on the ground with mulch to prevent rot. These are heavy feeders so deep, rich soil with high organic matter will help. We recommend a triple 20 fertilizer applied as needed and make sure your plants get plenty of water. To aid germination, clip or crack the seed coat at the very top (opposite the pointy end) before planting. This will help the seed imbibe water.
When to Grow
In warm climates, sow seeds directly in the garden once the soil has warmed to about 70 F. For short-season growers, start seeds indoors three weeks before the last frost to extend the growing season. Learn more about your region’s frost dates by checking out our blog post, ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’
How to Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1 inch deep in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The ideal germination temperature is 75-90 F. Once seedlings are strong and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them at least 10 feet apart to give the plants enough space to get huge. These gourds develop long, sprawling vines, so provide a trellis or ample ground space for optimal growth.
How to Grow
Keep plants well-watered, especially during early growth, but avoid waterlogging. A thick layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds, which become difficult to manage as vines spread. Though generally resistant to pests, the Giant Bushel Basket gourd can be affected by cucumber beetles and squash bugs. Protect plants using kaolin clay, introduce beneficial insects, or manually remove pests if necessary. Gourds rely on bees for pollination; if needed, hand-pollinate flowers for better fruit set.
How to Save
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Gourds are easily cross-pollinated, so it is advisable to isolate different seed-saving varieties up to 1/2 mile to ensure seed purity.
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A minimum of 15 plants of each variety should be grown to avoid inbreeding issues. Harvest fruit before it has dried out when it is still green in color but has developed a tough skin.
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Scoop seeds to dry; they will remain viable for about 4 years when stored properly in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
FAQ
How big do Giant Bushel Basket gourds get?
They can weigh up to 200 pounds, making them one of the largest gourd varieties.
Do I need a trellis for Giant Bushel Basket gourds?
While they can be grown on the ground, a sturdy trellis helps keep them cleaner and prevents rot. If grown on the ground, apply a thick layer of mulch.
How do I know when my Giant Bushel Basket gourds are ready to harvest?
They are ready when the skin is hard. If the vine has died back and the gourd sounds hollow when tapped, it is fully mature.
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Gourd Seeds, Giant Bushel Basket
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