Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge

Cucurbitcaea : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
                P P P  

(Best months for growing Luffa in South Africa - Summer rainfall regions)

  • 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

06 Jan 14, babylonstoren (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Our loofah growing in the glasshouse has leaf curl and some colour differences on the older leaves. I think it is a mineral defficiency but not sure....Any advice PLS!!
04 Apr 13, Akpotu Samson (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
Where can I purchase loofah in Durban/South Africa
15 Oct 14, Ru (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I bought my african loofah seeds from livings seeds (south africa). Just google them since I can't post the link here. They sell heirloom seeds. In fact I just planted some and have 5 seedlings already :-)
Showing 31 - 33 of 33 comments

Can I grow Luffa in Bellingham Washington? What sorts of yields can I expect?

- Diane Cotman

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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