Gourds Wonderwall is perfect if you love variety and want to grow something decorative, unusual and fun. Gourds (Cucurbita species) have been grown for thousands of years all around the world – originally valued for their practical uses as bowls, bottles, and utensils, and later for their colourful, ornamental shapes.

This mix includes a wide range of ornamental types, producing fruits in many different shapes, sizes and colours – from small, knobbly, and bumpy to smooth, striped, and swan-necked. Each plant is a surprise, making them especially exciting to grow with kids or as a display in the garden.

Gourds are not usually eaten, as most ornamental types are bitter and inedible, but they are wonderful for craft and decoration. Once dried, the shells can be used for bowls, birdhouses, and ornaments, or simply displayed in a basket for autumn and winter decoration.

How it Grows
Gourds grow as vigorous vines, much like pumpkins or squash. They need plenty of space to sprawl and prefer a sunny position with well-drained, fertile soil. They are fast-growing and love warm weather, producing beautiful yellow flowers before setting fruit. Each plant will produce multiple gourds, so even a few vines will give you an abundant and varied harvest.

How to Grow From Seed:

Sow seeds directly into the garden in late spring to early summer, once the soil has warmed and all risk of frost has passed.

Plant seeds about 2–3 cm deep and space them 80–100 cm apart to allow room for the vines to spread.

Alternatively, start seeds in pots indoors 3–4 weeks earlier and transplant when strong enough.

Keep the soil moist during germination, which usually takes 7–10 days.

Gourds appreciate a trellis or fence to climb, though they’ll also happily trail across the ground.

Harvest fruits when they are fully mature and the stems have completely dried off to brown. Cure in a warm, dry place for several weeks until the shells harden. Keep seeds for next time or sell them back to us!