Ashleigh Smith + photo

Ashleigh Smith

Jun 14
2 min read
bubble 2
gourds hanging from a support

Are Gourd Seeds Difficult To Germinate?

Isn’t it funny how different seeds have their own special needs when it comes to growing? These needs start from a plant's beginning as seeds. When it comes to gourd seeds, they can require a bit of extra help to get going. Because of their hard seed coats, it can be difficult to germinate if the right conditions are not met—gourd seeds like lots of water to get going. Soaking your seeds can help trigger the right conditions to start germination.


How To Germinate Gourd Seeds

soaking gourd seeds

Step 1:

Soak your gourd seeds overnight (room temperature water) to speed up germination.

sprayed gourd seeds

Step 2:

Completely soak a paper towel and place it at the bottom of your container.


drained gourd seeds

Step 3:

Drain your soaked seeds and wrap them in your wet paper towel.

gourd seeds in container

Step 4:

Cover the container and put in a warm location. Or, place your seeds wrapped in a wet paper towel inside a baggie. Keep them warm on a heating pad until germination takes place.


sprouted gourd seeds

Step 5:

You should see your results in 4-6 days.

gourds hanging from plant

Step 6:

Follow all other planting directions specific to your variety following germination to grow healthy gourds from seed.


If you’ve never tried growing your own gourds you are in luck, we have a great selection for you to choose from. Gourds can be a great tool to learn the basics of germination and growing your favorite produce from seed, your kids will love it too. Use your gourd harvest for fun fall crafts yourself, or with your kids. Getting your favorite gourds to grow doesn’t have to be difficult. To help you have a great experience we have made this easy printable guide for access to these step by step instructions on how to germinate gourd seeds.

Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

2 comments

Roy Campos

I’m anxious to try planting and sharing with kids in the classroom.


charlie sward

High Ashleigh, my wife Rose buys big gourds and makes them into baskets using pine needles. We have never had any fortune in growing these gourds ourselves and so I am excited to see your article on how to start the guards. Can these big gourds be grown in Florida and if so what support do you recommend they grow on. Charlie Sward 1836 Yukon Ct Middleburg, Fl 32068 904-271-1929, Revsward@gmail.com


  1. Ditch Peat and Embrace Coco Coirnull

    Ditch Peat and Embrace Coco Coir

    Written By Lara Wadsworth If you have gardened, had a house plant, or even been to a garden center in your life, chances are you have heard of peat moss. Peat moss is highly popular in the gardening world as an organic soil amendment and growing medium...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-17
    9 min read
    bubble 5
  2. From Seed to Harvest: Understanding the Stages of Plant GrowthA seedling sprouting from the soil

    From Seed to Harvest: Understanding the Stages of Plant Growth

    Written By Lara Wadsworth There are so many different kinds of plants on the earth that it can be overwhelming at times, especially when all we are trying to do is have a successful garden. But when that garden contains 10 to 40 or more different kinds...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-10
    11 min read
    bubble 2
  3. Lara's 2024 Garden in Reviewgardener holding a carrot in a glove and a tomato plant with green fruits

    Lara's 2024 Garden in Review

    Written By Lara Wadsworth This year was only my third year having a garden to myself. Growing up, I gardened alongside my mother and grandmother, but after leaving home, I lived in apartments for many years without much space for a garden. I finally go...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-03
    13 min read
    bubble 0
  4. Cultivating Christmas TraditionsChristmas gifts, pine sprigs, and ornaments on dark background

    Cultivating Christmas Traditions

    Written By Lara Wadsworth The phrase “Christmas time is here!” will soon echo through your speakers and messaging all around. Most American families, regardless of religion, seem to be celebrating this massive holiday in one way or another. Some may fo...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-11-26
    8 min read
    bubble 0