Sowing

Direct sow after last frost when soil reaches 70°F, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost

Cultivation

Zone	Start indoors	Transplant	Direct sow	Harvest
3	—	—	June – July	November – October
4	—	—	June – July	October
5	—	—	May – June	October
6	—	—	May – June	October – November
7	—	—	April – June	September – November
8	—	—	April – May	September – October
9	—	—	March – April	August – September
10	—	—	February – April	July – September
11	—	—	January – March	June – August
12	—	—	January – March	June – August
13	—	—	January – March	June – August

8 beneficial pairings indexed for this variety, 4 to avoid.

CornProvides natural trellis support for climbing gourds and attracts beneficial insects

BeansFixes nitrogen in soil which gourds utilize, part of traditional Three Sisters planting

NasturtiumsActs as trap crop for squash bugs and cucumber beetles, repels aphids

MarigoldsDeters cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and nematodes with strong scent

RadishesRepels cucumber beetles and squash vine borers, quick harvest before gourd spreads

DillAttracts beneficial predatory insects that control squash pests

CatnipStrongly repels cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and flea beetles

SunflowersProvides shade and wind protection, attracts pollinators essential for fruit set

PotatoesCompete for similar soil nutrients and space, both are heavy feeders

FennelInhibits growth of most garden plants including gourds through allelopathic compounds

SageStrong allelopathic properties can stunt gourd growth and development

MelonsIncreases risk of shared diseases like bacterial wilt and attracts same pest insects

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Growing it? There is a full cultivation guide at the squash growing guide.

Cultivar facts compiled from public horticultural references including USDA GRIN and NC State Extension. Descriptions are original to this catalogue.