Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge

Cucurbitcaea : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
      S S              
          T            
          P            

(Best months for growing Luffa in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 45 - 75 cm apart
  • Harvest in 11-12 weeks. Use as a back scratcher.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Peas, Beans, Onions, Sweetcorn
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

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06 Oct 18, Karen Robertson (New Zealand - cool/mountain climate)
Where can I but in nz tauranga area pse.
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07 Oct 18, Mike L (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Try on the net - seed selling people. If not try Australia.
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04 Oct 18, EILEEN ZERRENNER (USA - Zone 6a climate)
will lofa grow in my zone?
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15 Dec 18, Doug (USA - Zone 5a climate)
Very difficult, this plant needs a very long growing season with warm soil, at least 65 F. If you try this, be certain to start indoors 4-6 weeks before last frost. Use biodegradable starting pots and plant out when you are absolutely certain there will not be another frost. Provide full sun for as much of the day as you can. At harvest time wait until fully dried on the vine or if there is a risk of frost, harvest immediately, even if it is still a green pod. Good luck.
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30 Sep 18, Diane Cotman (USA - Zone 5a climate)
Can I grow Luffa in Bellingham Washington? What sorts of yields can I expect?
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21 Sep 18, Pearl (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
Does anyone know where I can buy loofah/luffa seeds? Got from seedsforafrica last year. They are out of stock. I am in Midrand,South Africa
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16 Sep 18, Michelle Mckee (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
Where can I buy the plant or the vegetable please I'm in ispwich Queensland. Many thanks Michelle
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16 Sep 18, (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
google, (or other search engines) where to buy luffa seeds on the internet.
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10 Sep 18, Ranee Naidoo (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Please advise where I could buy these seeds?How much do I pay for seeds.Does the point of the seed face upwards?
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11 Feb 19, Andy (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Try seeds for Africa as they deliver to your door step. happy growing
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Boondie Seeds, Armidale NSW. that's where I got mine :)

- Zac Ezzy

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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.
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