If you need to, use a sunlamp so that your seeds get 8 hours of light each day.
If you’re mainly growing luffa to use as sponges, just 2-3 plants should give you enough to work with. 1 plant will produce about 6-7 luffas.
Luffa needs a lot of room to grow; their vines can grow up to 30 feet (360 in) long! Putting them near a trellis is a great way to give the vines someplace to go so they don’t encroach on the rest of your garden.
If you notice any leaves turning brown, that’s a sign that your plants aren’t getting enough water.
If you notice any leaves turning brown, that’s a sign that your plants aren’t getting enough water.
Usually just one application of diatomaceous earth should be enough, but if you notice reappearing pests, feel free to reapply it every 3-4 days.
Luffa will taste the best when it’s under 4 inches (10 cm) long. If it’s between 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), peel the skin before you eat it, as the skin starts to get really bitter at that stage.
It’s important to leave the gourds on the vine until it’s time to harvest, otherwise the luffa plant will start to rot and can’t be used for a sponge anymore.
The skin of the luffa can sometimes be a little prickly. If it bothers you, wear gardening gloves.
If you don’t have your own compost pile, many communities have programs that will collect compostable goods for you. Check online with your local municipality to see if this is an option.
If you don’t have your own compost pile, many communities have programs that will collect compostable goods for you. Check online with your local municipality to see if this is an option.
The luffa can be a little smelly, so peel it outdoors on a patio or in a backyard.
Put the seeds into a paper bag to keep them safe until the next spring. You could even give some to friends who are also interested in growing luffa.
If you don’t have a high-pressure hose, turn your faucet on as high as it will go. It may take a little longer, but it’ll still get the job done.
If you don’t have space outside to dry the luffa, put them on a counter where they will get a lot of sunlight if possible.
