Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge

Cucurbitcaea : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Apr	May	Jun
S	S
		T
		P

(Best months for growing Luffa in USA - Zone 5a regions)

S = Plant undercover in seed trays
T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
P = Sow seed

Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 68°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
Space plants: 18 - 30 inches apart
Harvest in 11-12 weeks. Use as a back scratcher.
Compatible with (can grow beside): Peas, Beans, Onions, Sweetcorn
Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

13 Aug 20, Ilonka (USA - Zone 7b climate): Can you post a picture of those crates? I searched online for them but can’t find any. Thank you in advance ! (Or give a link to a picture - Editor)
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30 Jan 20, (USA - Zone 9b climate): What does plant undercover mean. Inside with a plastic lid?
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30 Jan 20, Liz at Gardenate (New Zealand - sub-tropical climate): For Gardenate : Young seedlings can be affected by sudden changes of temperature. To prevent this seedtrays are usually kept under cover for a few weeks. Any area which mantains even, frost-free, temperatures 24 hours will do. e.g. Unheated greenhouses, a covered area close to the house, or small frames covered with frostcloth or with a piece of fabric like old bed sheets. If possible put the trays above ground level. Too much strong sunlight can do as much damage as cold nights to seedlings.
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24 Jan 20, NIEK VAN WYK (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate): Can seeds be planted in container eg CIRCILAR CONTAINER 550mm HIGH X 800mm DIAMETER (One seed per above container) Will appreciate backfeed Thank you
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28 Jan 20, James Linn (USA - Zone 8a climate): That is how I planted mine and I had 2 vines probably 40 to 50 foot spread, 1 vine each pot.
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27 Jan 20, anonymous (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate): If you read the notes here it says plant 45-75cm apart. Your pots are 80cm diameter.
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03 Jan 20, Alaina Seyssel (USA - Zone 8b climate): What accommodations should I make for growing Luffa in 8b?
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04 Jan 20, Mindi (USA - Zone 8a climate): We live in zone 8a and the biggest challenge for us when we grow Luffa is that they climb SO high and fast in the summer. I'd suggest planning on some serious trellising as the Luffa gourds get pretty heavy before they dry out.
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25 Oct 19, j d taylor (USA - Zone 9a climate): where to get loofa seeds and best type to grow here
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04 Jan 20, Mindi (USA - Zone 8a climate): Many places online will have them.... Google search "Luffa Gourd Seeds"
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Can I plant loofa seeds in Oct.

- Vicki

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Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge

Cucurbitcaea : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

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