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Your email address will not be published.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. 10 Natives of the Southwest USA for Pest ControlMexican Hat Flower Meadow

    10 Natives of the Southwest USA for Pest Control

    Written By Lara Wadsworth The Southwestern United States is a region incredibly unique to the rest of the country. The hot, dry weather can be challenging for plants and animals to thrive without additional help. That is why gardening with natives can ...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-04-15
    7 min read
    bubble 0
  2. Spring Into Action - Celebrating Earth DayEarth from space

    Spring Into Action - Celebrating Earth Day

    Written By Chelsea Hafer Spring is quickly arriving, and that means that Earth Day is near! Earth Day is the perfect occasion to appreciate our wonderful planet and all that it does for us and think of ways you can give back to it. In this blog post, w...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-04-15
    4 min read
    bubble 0
  3. Everything You Need To Know About Rain Gardensnigella flower with raindrops

    Everything You Need To Know About Rain Gardens

    Written By Lara Wadsworth Rain gardens are quickly gaining popularity for their perfect marriage of utility and beauty. What simply looks like a beautifully landscaped garden is actually a native habitat that serves as a storm drain and water sponge. B...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-04-08
    5 min read
    bubble 1
  4. Northeastern Natives for Attracting Beneficial Insectsyarrow meadow

    Northeastern Natives for Attracting Beneficial Insects

    Written By Lara Wadsworth The Northeastern United States is rich with American history, but did you also know that it is rich in plant biodiversity? Nature has learned through time how to work in harmony with the various species that attempt to thrive....


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-04-08
    6 min read
    bubble 1