Luffa (Loofa) Gourd Heirloom Seed Packet (8 seeds)
Axe & Root Homestead is finally sharing seeds from our own growing spaces (with free shipping)! I've been seed-saving for years and using my own stock in my gardens. In 2024, I grew more crops than ever and excess seeds were saved to share with other growers. These seeds were grown in my permaculture gardens, totally naturally, with zero additives, pesticides, or herbicides. Small batches are hand-harvested, dried and packaged here in central New Jersey.
About Luffa/Loofah Gourds
Most folks think luffa originates in the sea. It actually grows right in your garden on a vine! Long vines with star-like leaves produce heavy gourds. These gourds should be left on the vine as long as possible to ensure they mature fully before harvest. Luffa likes a long growing season so sow indoors well before your last date of frost. Once all danger of frost has passed, transplant to the garden and give it a strong support system to climb. If frost threatens to arrive before your gourds are dried on the vine, simply harvest them and allow to dry out indoors before peeling. For areas with long growing seasons, direct sowing is preferred.
Typical Germination: 14-21 days
Days to Maturity: 150 days+
Light: Full sun
Soil: Nutrient rich, well-draining soil
Sowing Depth: 1/2"
Plant Height: Indeterminate climber with gourds measuring roughly 24"
Permaculture Uses
- As an heirloom crop, save your seeds for future use.
- Drought and heat tolerant.
- Dry and peel the gourds for use as kitchen or bath sponges.
- Catnip, dill, fennel, and parsley are excellent as companions for luffa.
- Grow gourds along side sunflowers for a natural trellis system.
- Luffa is edible and can be eaten raw or prepared as other squash crops.
- Used sponges can be composted after use.
- Giant yellow blossoms attract pollinators to your growing space!
- There are many medicinal uses for luffa in the home apothecary, as it's said to treat colds, nasal swelling, help with premature graying of the hair, and more. More research is advised.
Be sure to understand your own growing zone and microclimate before planting seeds. Research is advised on plant varieties, requirements, and specifications. After seeds arrive, refer back to this product listing for suggested sowing instructions. Instructions will not be shipped with seeds in an effort to save paper.
IMPORTANT:
Refunds will not be provided for ungerminated seeds. These seeds are used in my own personal garden and have been found to be viable. Please research seed sowing processes before purchasing as faulty sowing, user error, extreme weather conditions, or other factors resulting in poor germination rates are outside of our control. No exceptions.