{"title":"Semences de luffa","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"gourde-luffa","title":"Gourd 'Luffa'","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLuffa Gourd: The Ultimate Gardener's Challenge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e Luffa squash seeds \u003cem\u003e(Luffa aegyptiaca)\u003c\/em\u003e , offered by the seed company OSC.\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This vigorous, creeping vine can grow to 20 feet or more in length and requires a structure to climb. Growing luffa gourd in cold climates like zone 5a is challenging, requiring advanced techniques such as soil solarization, raised beds, and shelters to extend the growing season. The inner fiber of mature fruits can be dried to create natural sponges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 6 m\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003ePlant height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Not applicable\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eQuantity per pack:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 10–11 seeds\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eCompanion plants:\u003c\/strong\u003e Corn, beans, sunflowers\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eEnemy plants:\u003c\/strong\u003e None notable\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e From Squash to Sponge: A Fascinating Transformation\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Luffa gourd is the plant from which natural sponges commonly used for bathing and cleaning are extracted. Here's how:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003eHarvesting\u003c\/strong\u003e : Ripe fruits are picked and soaked to remove the skin and flesh.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003ePreparation\u003c\/strong\u003e : Only the internal fiber network is preserved.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003eDrying\u003c\/strong\u003e : Once dried, these fibers become the natural sponges we know.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e Why adopt the loofah sponge?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003eEco-friendly\u003c\/strong\u003e : Completely biodegradable and chemical-free.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003eExfoliating\u003c\/strong\u003e : Perfect for removing dead skin cells.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong\u003eSustainable\u003c\/strong\u003e : A natural alternative to synthetic sponges.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHow to grow:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Start seeds indoors one month before the last frost date. Sow 1 inch deep in a soilless mix and keep at 70 degrees F (21 degrees C) for germination in 7 to 14 days. Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after the danger of frost has passed, spacing them 3 feet apart and placing them near a climbing structure. Ground-grown vines often produce curved fruit. In zones 5b and below, success is rare, but in zones 6 and above, direct sowing into well-prepared soil is possible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e A fascinating squash for intrepid gardeners looking to take on a challenge and produce natural sponges at home.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"OSC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52109479870624,"sku":"OSC00315","price":2.19,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/Gourde_Luffa.jpg?v=1736261383"},{"product_id":"w-h-perron-courge-dete-hybride-zou-sing-luffa","title":"Luffa squash 'Zou Sing'","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCourge luffa ‘Zou Sing’ (\u003cem\u003eLuffa\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/strong\u003e. La courge luffa ‘Zou Sing’ F1 se cultive pour produire des éponges végétales. Ses longues vignes portent des fruits vert foncé, côtelés, qui peuvent atteindre 50 à 60 cm (20 à 24 po). À maturité avancée, la peau jaunit ou brunit et se détache de l’intérieur fibreux. Cette variété n’est pas sensible à la longueur des jours et convient ainsi aux longues journées estivales. Prévoyez un treillis solide dès la plantation pour soutenir sa croissance. Le délai commercial de 55 jours ne remplace pas l’observation des fruits : la fabrication d’éponges exige leur maturation complète, jusqu’au brunissement de la peau.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLe calendrier de semis de cette variété se prépare ainsi : à l’intérieur, 3 à 4 semaines avant le dernier gel. Pour cette variété, respectez cette profondeur de semis : 2,5 cm. Les courges et courgettes reprennent mieux lorsque leurs racines restent intactes. Un semis en pot individuel facilite la transplantation; au jardin, attendez une terre réchauffée. Évitez d’enterrer les plantules dans une terre froide et saturée. Identifiez chaque emplacement et laissez dès le départ la surface nécessaire aux tiges. Les jeunes plants paraissent petits au semis, mais leur feuillage occupe rapidement beaucoup plus de place.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCommencez à observer la récolte de cette variété à l’approche de 55 jours après semis; vérifiez alors la couleur, la fermeté et le calibre recherchés pour la cueillette. Cette variété présente cette caractéristique à la récolte : forme du fruit — variée. Cette variété présente cette caractéristique à la récolte : longueur du fruit — 50-60 cm. Récoltez-les lorsque la fleur est tombée de l’extrémité du fruit. Avant de récolter les courges d’hiver, il faut s’assurer que le fruit est complètement mûr et que son écorce est assez dure. Semez chaque graine à 2,5 cm de profondeur, en buttes espacées de 1,5 m à 2 m.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"W.H. Perron","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52143265349792,"sku":"65-4538-01N","price":6.39,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/CourgeLuffa_ZouSing.jpg?v=1737469668"},{"product_id":"ga-luffa-courge-eponge-bio","title":"Luffa Gourd organic","description":"\u003ch3 data-end=\"97\" data-start=\"0\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"95\" data-start=\"4\"\u003eOrganic Luffa Gourd from the seed company Gaia, a versatile squash for cooking and exfoliation\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"484\" data-start=\"99\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"118\" data-start=\"102\"\u003eLuffa gourd\u003c\/strong\u003e ( \u003cem data-end=\"141\" data-start=\"120\"\u003eLagenaria siceraria\u003c\/em\u003e ), also called \u003cstrong data-end=\"175\" data-start=\"158\"\u003esponge gourd\u003c\/strong\u003e , is a spectacular climbing plant, cultivated both for its \u003cstrong data-end=\"268\" data-start=\"246\"\u003eedible fruits\u003c\/strong\u003e and for its \u003cstrong data-end=\"321\" data-start=\"281\"\u003etransformation into natural sponges\u003c\/strong\u003e . In Asian cuisine, its \u003cstrong data-end=\"379\" data-start=\"354\"\u003eyoung tender fruits\u003c\/strong\u003e are prized for their \u003cstrong data-end=\"442\" data-start=\"402\"\u003edelicate texture and subtle flavor\u003c\/strong\u003e , perfect in stir-fries, curries or stews.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-end=\"851\" data-start=\"486\"\u003eIf the \u003cstrong data-end=\"532\" data-start=\"503\"\u003efruits are allowed to ripen on the vine\u003c\/strong\u003e , they are transformed into \u003cstrong data-end=\"578\" data-start=\"557\"\u003enatural fibers\u003c\/strong\u003e , offering an ecological and sustainable alternative to synthetic sponges. \u003cstrong data-end=\"673\" data-start=\"652\"\u003eEasy to grow\u003c\/strong\u003e , this plant requires \u003cstrong data-end=\"714\" data-start=\"694\"\u003egood staking\u003c\/strong\u003e to support its vigorous growth and allow the gourds to \u003cstrong data-end=\"803\" data-start=\"783\"\u003ehang freely\u003c\/strong\u003e , thus promoting their optimal development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"879\" data-start=\"853\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"877\" data-start=\"857\"\u003eDid you know?\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-end=\"1186\" data-start=\"881\"\u003eContrary to what one might think, loofah sponges do \u003cstrong data-end=\"976\" data-start=\"959\"\u003enot come from the sea\u003c\/strong\u003e , but from this variety of squash! Used for centuries in \u003cstrong data-end=\"1097\" data-start=\"1050\"\u003ebody care and household cleaning\u003c\/strong\u003e , loofah fiber is \u003cstrong data-end=\"1183\" data-start=\"1121\"\u003ebiodegradable, antibacterial and naturally exfoliating\u003c\/strong\u003e .\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"1340\" data-start=\"1188\"\u003e In some cultures, luffa is also valued for its \u003cstrong data-end=\"1276\" data-start=\"1250\"\u003emedicinal properties\u003c\/strong\u003e , particularly for \u003cstrong data-end=\"1337\" data-start=\"1293\"\u003erelieving coughs and purifying the body\u003c\/strong\u003e .\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"1555\" data-start=\"1342\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1357\" data-start=\"1342\"\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vigorous climbing plant\u003cbr data-end=\"1388\" data-start=\"1385\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1407\" data-start=\"1388\"\u003ePlant height:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can reach 3 to 6 m with staking\u003cbr data-end=\"1448\" data-start=\"1445\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1473\" data-start=\"1448\"\u003eQuantity per pack:\u003c\/strong\u003e ± 15 seeds \u003cbr data-end=\"1489\" data-start=\"1486\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"1512\" data-start=\"1489\"\u003eCompanion plants:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coming soon\u003cbr data-end=\"1523\" data-start=\"1520\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1545\" data-start=\"1523\"\u003eEnemy Plants:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coming Soon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"1582\" data-start=\"1557\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1580\" data-start=\"1561\"\u003eCultivation method\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"1935\" data-start=\"1584\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"1628\" data-start=\"1587\"\u003eLuffa needs warmth and time\u003c\/strong\u003e to mature. \u003cstrong data-end=\"1726\" data-start=\"1654\"\u003eStart seeds indoors 5 to 6 weeks before the last frost\u003c\/strong\u003e to give them a head start. To \u003cstrong data-end=\"1796\" data-start=\"1760\"\u003eencourage quick germination\u003c\/strong\u003e , soak the seeds in \u003cstrong data-end=\"1860\" data-start=\"1826\"\u003ewarm water for 24 hours\u003c\/strong\u003e , then \u003cstrong data-end=\"1891\" data-start=\"1867\"\u003elightly scarify\u003c\/strong\u003e their tough coverings before planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-end=\"2203\" data-start=\"1937\"\u003eTransplant seedlings \u003cstrong data-end=\"2028\" data-start=\"1961\"\u003eonce night temperatures are above 15°C\u003c\/strong\u003e and provide \u003cstrong data-end=\"2066\" data-start=\"2044\"\u003eample space\u003c\/strong\u003e , as this plant climbs \u003cstrong data-end=\"2117\" data-start=\"2092\"\u003eand spreads quickly\u003c\/strong\u003e . \u003cstrong data-end=\"2157\" data-start=\"2119\"\u003eA sturdy trellis or pergola\u003c\/strong\u003e is ideal to support its growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"2418\" data-start=\"2205\"\u003e Luffa prefers \u003cstrong data-end=\"2277\" data-start=\"2225\"\u003erich, well-drained soil in full sun\u003c\/strong\u003e . Water \u003cstrong data-end=\"2304\" data-start=\"2287\"\u003eregularly\u003c\/strong\u003e to maintain vigorous growth, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"2455\" data-start=\"2420\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"2453\" data-start=\"2424\"\u003eHarvesting and processing\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n \u003cp data-end=\"2671\" data-start=\"2457\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"2478\" data-start=\"2459\"\u003eFor cooking\u003c\/strong\u003e : Harvest \u003cstrong data-end=\"2550\" data-start=\"2494\"\u003eyoung fruits when they are about 6 to 8 inches long\u003c\/strong\u003e . At this stage, their flesh is still tender and flavorful. Frequent picking encourages \u003cstrong data-end=\"2668\" data-start=\"2641\"\u003econtinued production\u003c\/strong\u003e .\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"2942\" data-start=\"2673\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"2705\" data-start=\"2675\"\u003eTo make sponges\u003c\/strong\u003e : Allow the gourds \u003cstrong data-end=\"2763\" data-start=\"2728\"\u003eto fully ripen on the vine\u003c\/strong\u003e until their skins turn \u003cstrong data-end=\"2820\" data-start=\"2795\"\u003efrom green to yellow-brown\u003c\/strong\u003e and they become light to the touch. Harvest them before the first frost to prevent them from rotting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"2999\" data-start=\"2944\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"2995\" data-start=\"2944\"\u003eProcess of transformation into natural sponge\u003c\/strong\u003e : \u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003col data-end=\"3365\" data-start=\"3000\"\u003e\n\n\u003cli data-end=\"3070\" data-start=\"3000\"\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong data-end=\"3045\" data-start=\"3003\"\u003eSoak the gourd in water\u003c\/strong\u003e to soften its skin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli data-end=\"3153\" data-start=\"3071\"\u003e \n\u003cstrong data-end=\"3108\" data-start=\"3074\"\u003eRemove the outer shell\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong data-end=\"3127\" data-start=\"3112\"\u003erinse well\u003c\/strong\u003e to remove the pulp.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli data-end=\"3244\" data-start=\"3154\"\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong data-end=\"3198\" data-start=\"3157\"\u003eLet dry completely in the sun\u003c\/strong\u003e , then \u003cstrong data-end=\"3241\" data-start=\"3205\"\u003eshake to remove the seeds\u003c\/strong\u003e .\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli data-end=\"3365\" data-start=\"3245\"\u003e\n\n \u003cstrong data-end=\"3278\" data-start=\"3248\"\u003eCut according to your needs\u003c\/strong\u003e and use your loofah as \u003cstrong data-end=\"3362\" data-start=\"3309\"\u003ean exfoliating sponge or an eco-friendly dishwashing sponge\u003c\/strong\u003e .\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\n\u003ch3 data-end=\"3409\" data-start=\"3367\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"3407\" data-start=\"3371\"\u003eWhy grow organic luffa?\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp data-end=\"3671\" data-start=\"3411\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"3473\" data-start=\"3413\"\u003eTwo uses in one: tasty vegetable and natural sponge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"3476\" data-start=\"3473\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"3546\" data-start=\"3478\"\u003eEco-friendly and biodegradable alternative to synthetic sponges\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-end=\"3549\" data-start=\"3546\"\u003e \u003cstrong data-end=\"3608\" data-start=\"3551\"\u003eClimbing plant ideal for trellises and pergolas\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr data-end=\"3611\" data-start=\"3608\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-end=\"3669\" data-start=\"3613\"\u003eEasy to grow with good staking and sun\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4 data-end=\"3855\" data-start=\"3673\"\u003e With its \u003cstrong data-end=\"3726\" data-start=\"3682\"\u003emultiple uses and its zero waste side\u003c\/strong\u003e , the \u003cstrong data-end=\"3747\" data-start=\"3731\"\u003eLuffa gourd\u003c\/strong\u003e is a \u003cstrong data-end=\"3789\" data-start=\"3764\"\u003epractical and innovative\u003c\/strong\u003e crop, perfect for \u003cstrong data-end=\"3851\" data-start=\"3809\"\u003eenvironmentally conscious gardeners\u003c\/strong\u003e !\u003c\/h4\u003e","brand":"Gaia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52295548272800,"sku":"GAI-SEMENCES","price":4.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/luffa.png?v=1740581649"},{"product_id":"w-courge-luffa","title":"‘Luffa’ luffa gourd (\u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e‘Luffa’ luffa gourd (\u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/strong\u003e ‘Luffa’ luffa gourd is distinguished by tender fruit. It is a clearly identified luffa gourd cultivar for gardeners who value dependable sowing information and a well-labelled crop. Its botanical identity is Luffa aegyptiaca. Plan this variety for a home vegetable plot, raised bed, or suitable container, according to its mature size and growing requirements. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level. Good air circulation and adequate spacing help foliage dry normally after rain or irrigation.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDirect sow after frost in warm soil or start indoors three weeks before transplanting. Sow about 1.3 to 2.5 cm deep. Keep the seedbed evenly moist through emergence. Allow 45 to 90 cm depending on habit and fruit size. Provide full sun and avoid standing water. A germination temperature of 21 to 32°C is appropriate for this crop. Thin crowded seedlings early and harden indoor-started plants gradually before transplanting. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e‘Luffa’ luffa gourd is grown for the edible portions normally harvested from this type of crop. Pick only healthy produce at the appropriate stage, handle it carefully, and rinse it according to the intended preparation. Maintain deep, regular watering at soil level. Keep the planting accessible for observation, watering, harvest, or grooming. Use clean tools, remove damaged material, and store unused seed in a cool, dry, dark location. Choose compatible neighbouring plants and maintain enough room for air circulation. For best results, label the row and observe the plants regularly as conditions change through the season. Adjust watering to rainfall, wind, container size, and the actual moisture at soil level.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Weston","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53075851673760,"sku":"WSD-62223000010","price":3.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/Squash-Luffa.jpg?v=1764903212"},{"product_id":"p-luffa","title":"Loofah squash (\u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLoofah squash\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e Loofah squash is a squash variety offered as seed for gardens in Quebec and across Canada. This variety is especially notable for the following characteristic: The famous squash that produces vegetable sponges. Its confirmed botanical name is Luffa aegyptiaca, which helps gardeners identify the plant accurately. The stated time to maturity is 200 days under favourable growing conditions. Final size depends on available space and consistent care. Suitable spacing promotes air movement around the foliage. This plant prefers full sun. Full sun, well-drained, rich soil. Sow indoors 8 weeks before last frost.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe confirmed sowing depth is 1cm. The producer recommends 30 cm between plants. Stable warmth generally encourages more even emergence. Germination time can vary with substrate moisture and temperature. For best results, keep the growing medium lightly moist during germination without saturating it. Once plants are established, water as needed while considering rainfall, drainage, and heat. Regular observation of the foliage makes it easier to adjust watering and care promptly. A light mulch can moderate moisture swings after plants are well established. Avoid persistent waterlogging, which reduces oxygen around the roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eYou can grow this variety beside plants with similar light and soil requirements. Harvesting at the right stage highlights the culinary qualities of this variety. Edible parts can be harvested at the recommended stage and prepared for the intended culinary use. These squash seeds offer a clearly presented option for planning a garden project suited to the season. Store the packet in a dry place and use the product-specific details to plan sowing. Gradual hardening off is recommended before outdoor planting when seedlings were started indoors. Watch young plants closely during windy, very hot, or unusually wet periods.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Le potager ornemental de Catherine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53243328233632,"sku":"POC-SEMENCES","price":4.19,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/Luffa.jpg?v=1770666400"},{"product_id":"petite-courge-ridee-satputiya-bio","title":"‘Satputiya’ small ridge gourd, certified organic seeds (\u003cem\u003eLuffa acutangula\u003c\/em\u003e)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e‘Satputiya’ small ridge gourd, certified organic seeds (\u003cem\u003eLuffa acutangula\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/strong\u003e This vigorous annual vine produces elongated fruit with strongly defined ridges. Harvested young and green, the fruit has tender flesh suited to stir-fries, curries, soups, and stews. Satputiya is an open-pollinated heirloom that thrives in warm conditions and grows vertically on a trellis or fence. The packet contains approximately 20 seeds certified organic by Ecocert Canada. Kew recognizes \u003cem\u003eLuffa acutangula\u003c\/em\u003e as the accepted botanical name in the Cucurbitaceae family. Its unusual shape adds variety to edible gardens and identifies it clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eStart seed indoors three to four weeks before the last frost. Sow 1\/2 inch deep and maintain the medium at 20 to 25°C, optimally near 23°C; germination generally takes 10 to 20 days. Transplant only after soil is warm and all frost risk has passed. Space plants 36 to 42 inches apart and rows approximately 48 inches apart. Install sturdy support at planting to guide the vines and keep developing fruit clean. Gradually harden seedlings before planting outdoors, then protect them from sudden cold nights after transplanting outdoors.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGrow Satputiya in full sun and rich loose soil that remains evenly moist while draining well. Maturity occurs in 60 to 90 days, and vines generally reach 6 to 8 feet on support. Harvest fruit at approximately 8 to 10 inches long, before it yellows and becomes fibrous. Gaia also identifies the young leaves and flowers as edible. Refrigerate freshly harvested fruit and use it promptly for the best tender texture. Regular picking encourages a continued supply of young gourds. Check vines often because young fruit can grow quickly in heat.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gaia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56933097799840,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/Small-Ridge-Gourd-Satputiya.webp?v=1776431453"},{"product_id":"courge-eponge-lisse-chikni-taroee-bio","title":"‘Chikni Taroee’ smooth sponge gourd, certified organic seeds (\u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e‘Chikni Taroee’ smooth sponge gourd, certified organic seeds (\u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/strong\u003e This vigorous annual vine produces numerous smooth cylindrical fruits with two distinct uses. Harvested young and green, they cook like tender squash; left to mature, they develop a fibrous network that becomes a natural plant sponge. Chikni Taroee is an open-pollinated heirloom requiring a sturdy trellis and a long warm season. The packet contains approximately 20 seeds certified organic by Ecocert Canada. The accepted botanical name is \u003cem\u003eLuffa aegyptiaca\u003c\/em\u003e, also known by the former synonym \u003cem\u003eLuffa cylindrica\u003c\/em\u003e. It is ideal for vertical kitchen gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Canadian seasons, start seed indoors six to eight weeks before the last frost. Soak seed for up to 24 hours, then sow 1\/2 inch deep in a biodegradable pot to reduce root disturbance. Maintain the medium at 20 to 25°C, optimally near 23°C; germination generally takes 10 to 20 days. Transplant only after soil is warm and all frost risk has passed. Space plants 36 to 42 inches apart and rows approximately 48 inches apart, and install strong support immediately so vigorous vines and developing fruit remain off the ground.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGrow Chikni Taroee in full sun and rich loose soil that stays evenly moist while draining well. The plant needs approximately 120 to 150 days to produce fully mature fruit and is frost sensitive. For cooking, pick fruit while green and tender, ideally before yellowing; Gaia suggests about 8 to 10 inches long. To make a sponge, allow fruit to become tan, light, and dry, then remove skin and seeds and rinse the fibres. Refrigerate young edible fruit, but keep finished sponges completely dry and protected from humidity during storage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Gaia","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56933100355744,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0655\/3878\/5440\/files\/SmoothSpongeGourdChikniTaroee.jpg?v=1776431472"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.pepiniere.ca\/en\/collections\/semences-de-luffa.oembed","provider":"Pépinière.ca","version":"1.0","type":"link"}