Lagenaria siceraria. 120 days. Open-pollinated.
Dipper gourds are sprawling, wildly prolific plants that produce an impressive number of fruits over the course of a growing season. The fruits have long, curved necks (or handles) with large bulbs (or dippers) at the stem end, making them an excellent choice for crafting ladles, drinking vessels, birdhouses, and other decorative items.
It is highly recommended you grow this plant on trellis if you're looking to produce a gourd with a longer, straighter handle.
Dipper Gourd
Growth Chart
Hardiness Zones: 4 to 12 Light Requirement: Full sun Soil Type: Rich, well drained Sow Depth: 1 inch Plant Spacing: 36 to 48 inches Germination Temp: 70ºF or higher Germination Time: 10 to 14 days Maturation: 125 days Growing Tips
Start seeds 3 to 4 weeks before the last spring frost. Soak seeds overnight, then sow in peat pots, 2 to 3 seeds per pot. Use a heat mat to maintain a soil temperature above 70°F and thin to the strongest plants once the seedlings have obtained their first set of true leaves. Transplant outdoors once soil temperatures have warmed to at least 70°F.
If direct sowing, wait until outdoor soil temperatures are 70°F or warmer, then plant seeds 1 inch deep in hills, 5 seeds per hill with 5 feet between hills. Thin to the strongest plants once the seedlings have obtained their first set of true leaves.
For Lagenaria gourds, harvest mature fruits in the fall after several freezes.
Dry harvested gourds for 3-6 months in a moisture-free, well ventilated location. Take care not to let the gourds touch one another during drying, and check frequently for rot and mold. Mold can be wiped clean, but any rotted or soft gourds should be discarded. Drying is complete when the gourds feel light and hollow, and when the seeds can be heard rattling inside the gourd when shaken.