Bottle Gourd
lagenaria siceraria
Also known as: ["Calabash","Doodhi","Lou","Hulu"]
Overview
A vigorous, climbing vine producing large, bottle-shaped fruits used for culinary purposes and crafts.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cucurbitales |
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus: | Lagenaria |
| Botanical Name: | Lagenaria siceraria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in full sun with support for climbing
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"18–32°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining potting mix with added organic matter (e.g., compost or aged manure).
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune throughout growing season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary, but avoid over-pruning during flowering/fru
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in hottest afternoon hours during summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from intense midday sun to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
rich, well-draining loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength to avoid burn; apply to moist soil to prevent root shock; fertilize after watering for better absorption.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least 2 nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat moss, perlite, and sand); can also use water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks; full establishment in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use a healthy, non-flowering stem; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of lateral shoots and overcrowded branches; pinch tips to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, improve air circulation, and encourage fruit production; remove dead or diseased growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dry weather; remove dead/diseased parts first; make clean cuts just above a node.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; essential for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water and place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage or death in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if indoors; cover outdoors if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; reduced flowering or fruiting; soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10) every 2–4 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLagenaria siceraria is generally non-toxic to cats when properly prepared and consumed. However, ingestion of large quantities or improperly prepared parts may cause gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless improperly prepared or contaminated
Dogs
Non-toxicLagenaria siceraria is generally non-toxic to dogs when properly prepared and consumed. However, ingestion of large quantities or improperly prepared parts may cause gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless improperly prepared or contaminated
Humans
Non-toxicLagenaria siceraria, commonly known as bottle gourd or calabash, is generally considered non-toxic to humans when properly prepared and consumed. However, cases of toxicity have been reported due to genetic variations or improper preparation, leading to severe adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic unless improperly prepared or contaminated
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is bottle gourd safe for pets?
A: Yes, bottle gourd is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How do I grow bottle gourd?
A: Plant seeds in warm soil, provide support for climbing, and ensure regular watering.
Q: Can bottle gourd be used for crafts?
A: Yes, dried bottle gourds are commonly used to make utensils, musical instruments, and decorative items.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cucurbitaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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