Gourd - Ruka

NZH Gourds have a long history in this land as they have been cultivated by Maori since their arrival. Hue, the Maori word for gourd, were prized in the absence of pottery and they were used as vessels that held most of their food and water. This variety comes from the Ngāpuhi iwi. We received the seeds from Loiuse Shaw and we are excited to be experimenting with these beautiful vessels in our life. With a light sanding and beeswax coating, they can be further preserved for long lasting additions to the kitchen.

Gourds require a long growing season. Sow seeds indoors in early spring and pick out to 6cm spacing and transplant out at 50cm spacings after danger of frost. For longer necks grow on trellis, for flat bottom vessels provide a flat growing surface in the field. Best curing is on the plant but can be moved from the field once the plant has died back. Air movement is key to proper curing and is best done outdoors on in a vented glasshouse. Do not cut gourds until after the curing process. 

8 seeds.