Growing Gourds: Pollination, Fertilizer, and Soil Prep

Gourds Are Vegetables

Grown for decoration, but same needs as squash.

Fertilizer for Fruit Set

• Avoid high nitrogen (lush vines, few gourds).
• Use high phosphorus/potassium (e.g., 5‑20‑10 or 10‑20‑20).
• Amend soil in fall with compost, manure, leaves, peat.

Pollination Essential

• Bees transfer pollen. Plant colorful annuals/perennials nearby.
• No bees = no gourds.