Squash

The gourd, also known as the calabash, is a plant that offers many benefits both in our diet and in our garden. This plant can be used in a variety of delicious and healthy dishes. Gourds can be cooked in a variety of ways, whether by frying them in a pan with vegetables, incorporating them into soups, or roasting them in the oven. Their tender texture and subtle taste make them a versatile ingredient that pairs well with a variety of flavors. The gourd can also be used to prepare sweet recipes, such as desserts or jams. It is therefore a very interesting plant to grow in our vegetable garden.

To grow gourds in our vegetable garden, it is best to sow the seeds directly in the ground after the last frost, when the soil is well warmed. It is important to choose a sunny location, because the gourd needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow well. The land must be well drained and fertile. It is recommended to add compost or well-rotted manure before sowing the seeds. Gourd seeds should be planted about 2 to 3 cm deep and about 1 to 2 meters apart from each other, as this plant tends to spread a lot.

Caring for the gourd plant is relatively easy. It is important to keep the soil moist but not soggy, by watering regularly at the base of the plant. When the plant begins to grow, it is recommended to mulch the soil around it to retain moisture and avoid competition from weeds. The gourd is a plant that grows quickly, so it may require staking to support it. It is also advisable to remove the first flowers from the plant to promote better fruit production later.

The gourd harvest time depends on the variety grown, but in general, it can be harvested about 70 to 100 days after planting the seeds. Gourds should be harvested when they reach their mature size, but before they harden too much. It's best to harvest them with a bit of stem attached to extend their shelf life. Once harvested, the gourds can be stored in a cool, dry place, where they will keep for several months.

In conclusion, growing gourds in our vegetable garden can provide us with delicious homemade meals and desserts. By following the appropriate steps to sow and plant the plant, providing it with sunny exposure and good soil quality, as well as giving it regular maintenance, we will be able to enjoy the benefits of this plant throughout its harvest period. So why not add the gourd to our list of crops for this season?