Cyclanthera
When and how do you sow achocha under cover?
Sow achocha, Cyclanthera pedata, under cover in spring to raise young plants for planting out after frost. Adjust the start to your climate: an early plant that becomes long and pot-bound is harder to establish. Its first leaves are not a reason to move it outside while nights remain cold.
Fill clean pots with drainage holes using free-draining seed compost. Moisten it, then sow one or two seeds per pot about 1–2 cm deep. Firm gently and keep warm, around 20°C, with good light. Maintain moisture without soaking the mixture; standing water encourages seed and root deterioration.
Check emergence regularly rather than expecting a guaranteed deadline. If two seedlings grow in one pot, keep the stronger one by cutting the other at the base instead of pulling its roots out. Give enough light to avoid stretched stems and move to a larger pot if roots run out of room.
Before permanent planting, gradually introduce the plants to sunshine and outdoor air on mild days. Plan their future support before tendrils become tangled. Transplant with the rootball intact once weather and soil have warmed sufficiently.
When and how do you sow achocha outdoors?
When and how do you plant cyclanthera?
When and how do you harvest achocha?
