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Green Bitter Gourd Hybrid
Momordica charantia
 Green Bitter Gourd Hybrid
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Seed #365 |
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This bitter gourd produces a generous crop of large, heavy and uniform fruits with distinctive vertically scored, shiny and warty light green skin. Fruit size up to 12-13 inches and 3 inches in diameter. Also known as Bitter Melon, Karella, and Balsam Pear, it prefers warm, humid conditions. Among the most bitter of vegetables, the flesh of the bitter gourd is crunchy and juicy, somewhat like a cucumber in texture.
- Warm season annual
- Approx. 7-10 seeds in packet. (A seed will vary in weight and size within a given seed lot. The number of seeds stated is only an estimate.)
- Maturity: Approx. 56-63 days
- Planting season: Late spring to early summer
Cultivation: Prepare fertile, well-drained soil. In warm areas, sow seeds in late spring/summer after last frost in a warm, sunny location. For better germination, pre-sprout seeds indoors by soaking in water for 24 hours. Wrap in wet paper towel and keep warm between 75-85°F. Plant when seeds sprout. Keep soil moist. Fertilize as needed. Train to climb a vertical support for better air circulation and ease of harvest. The fruit has best flavor when picked green and about 12" long.
Germination
Temperature |
Seed
Depth |
Seed
Spacing |
Thin
To |
Row
Distance |
| 80-90°F |
1" |
1" |
6-12" |
36-48" |
Please note: Maturity, adaptability and disease tolerance may differ under your specific climate and/or growing conditions.
Culinary tips: Use in soup, stir-fries and stuffed. Young leaf shoots are edible. Recommended as a healthy food by the American Diabetic Association.
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