From

Location

Message

Date Posted

Topsfield, Ma.

Extracted and dried seeds from two long gords so far...and they're all hollow, everyone! Got a bunch more to try but it takes a lot of work. I pollinated most of them with only one or two flowers and then left them open. Anyone know if this is typical or what gives? Both were around 5 feet and were on the vine for the better part of the season. These were both very slim gords. Got a couple "war clubs" to try next and see if seed production is any better. Thanks in advance for any input.
Duff

11/10/2004 7:01:42 PM

Montoursville, PA

Duff.........Others have told me I simply did not get them started early enough for them to mature properly. We had no early frost and mine were still trying to grow in early November. They showed no signs of finishing off. The see are all there but not matured properly to remove.

I have three in the garage trying to mature or cure them but I now see the dark spots of grief. Out they will soon go. That is after I check and see if this may have helped the seeds mature. I don't think it would. We shall see.

11/30/2004 9:54:23 PM

Indiana

Doc
Gourds will turn dark and moldy on the outside before they get dry its normal. They're different than pumpkins.

12/1/2004 8:04:51 AM

Western Pa.

I have found that one of the easiest ways to retrieve long gourd seeds is to leave them outside for the winter. When they are frozen solid and "brittle" just bust them up by striking on a picnic table or whatever. Then pick out the seeds. Moondog is correct, dark spots are normal. The only way to make a dried whole gourd look good is with a coat of paint.

12/1/2004 8:42:25 AM