HYBRID GOURDS
Soil and Climate
Although gourds can be grown in a wide range of soil but loam, sandy loam or clay soils are ideal for their cultivation. The soil should be well drained and rich in organic matter. Warm weather and abundant sunshine promote good growth of vine. Alternatively low temperature slows down the growth of the vines.
Seed Rate per Acre
Bitter Gourd – 500 to 900 Gms
Ridge Gourd – 500 to 600 Gms
Sponge Gourd – 500 to 600 Gms
Bottle Gourd – 600 to 800 Gms
Sowing Distance
With Support
Row to Row – 180 to 200 Cms
Plant to plant – 60 to 70 Cms
Without Support
Row to Row – 100 to 120 Cms
Plant to Plant – 50 to 65 Cms
Manures and Fertilizers
The fertilizer dose depends upon the fertility of soil and amount of manure applied. For good yield 10 to 15 tonnes of well decomposed manure should be applied to the field prior to planting/ transplanting. General fertilizer recommendation per acre for optimum yield is
N: 70 to 100 Kgs, P: 40 to 60 Kgs, K: 30 to 60 Kgs
Apply the entire quantity of P & K and half of the N at the time of final field preparation. Balance quantity of nitrogen should be applied in three to four split doses at regular interval as top dressing.