Growing Luffa, also Loofah, plant sponge

Cucurbitcaea : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

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

(Best months for growing Luffa in South Africa - Summer rainfall regions)

  • 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 68°F and 86°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 18 - 30 inches 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

Post a comment or question Display Newest first | Oldest first, Show comments for South Africa | for all countries
08 May 19, Naasera (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I've seen YouTube videos with 2 types of loofah. The one with ridges, and a much larger one without ridges. I live in Natal and want seeds for the much larger type. Please advise where I can get these seeds.
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28 May 19, Maruschka (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I just managed to buy some on livingseeds.co.za
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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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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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13 Jan 16, Hope (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
I have seeds for Loofas, Kindly contact me on [email protected] if you need some.
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15 Oct 16, Jean Hull (South Africa - Dry summer sub-tropical climate)
I would love to get some loofah seeds but not sure where to purchase them in Natal.
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31 Aug 15, Francois (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Where can I get loofa seed?
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25 Apr 15, michelle (South Africa - Summer rainfall climate)
Where can I get luffa seeds in south africa?
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11 Jun 14, (South Africa - Humid sub-tropical climate)
diseases on luffa's, scan you help please with names of insecticides for this type of environment.
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Showing 21 - 30 of 33 comments
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I live in Las Vegas Nevada. It gets very hot during the summer months (100 to 120°). Will the loofahs grow here?

- Lisa Cologna

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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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