



Grow your own soft, high-yield lauki this summer. These high-germination bottle gourd seeds develop into vigorous climbing vines that thrive in rooftop pots or garden beds. They produce pale green, tender fruits perfect for everyday summer meals and are ready to harvest in just 60–70 days.
Great for home gardeners looking for consistent harvests with low maintenance in warm conditions.
Why Gardeners Prefer It
- High germination rate with heat-resilient vines
- Grows well in 12–16 inch pots, kiyari, or ground beds
- Germinates in 6–8 days, first harvest in 60–70 days
- Climbing vines ideal for rooftop trellis setups
- Tolerates summer heat with regular watering
How to Grow Bottle Gourd
When to Sow
- Sow from February to April or July to August for best results
Where to Grow
- Use large pots, grow bags, or beds with direct sun and support to climb
Sowing Method
- Soak seeds for 6–8 hours before sowing
- Mix 2 parts soil + 1 part vermicompost
- Sow 1 inch deep and keep soil moist during germination
- Train vines onto a strong trellis once 1–2 feet tall
Fertilizer & Care
- Before Sowing: Add vermicompost to the soil for healthy vines
- Every 2 Weeks: Use NPK 20-20-20 during early growth
- At Fruiting Stage: Switch to NPK 5-15-45
- Pest Control: Apply Neem Oil every 10–15 days to prevent borers or fungal issues
Local Tips
- Provide overhead support like mesh or bamboo arches for better yield
- Water regularly but avoid soggy soil
- Harvest when fruits are 12–15 inches long and still soft
- Don’t let fruits overmature — this reduces new flowering
FAQs
How many seeds should I sow in a 14-inch pot?
Sow 2–3 seeds evenly spaced. After germination, keep the healthiest single plant for stronger root and fruit development.
Can I direct sow these seeds in rooftop pots?
Yes — direct sowing works best. Bottle gourd doesn’t transplant well due to delicate root systems.
How can I boost fruit set in hot weather?
Ensure regular watering and avoid excess nitrogen once flowering starts. Switch to NPK 5-15-45 to promote fruiting.
Other Names: Bottle Gourd, Calabash, Long Melon, لوکی, گھیا, Lauki, Ghiya.