Sponge gourd Seeds (Luffa cylindrica), also known as loofah, is a satisfying experience. It’s a vining plant from the cucumber family that produces edible young fruits and mature gourds that can be used as sponges. Here’s how to grow it from seed:

1. When to Plant

Indoors: Start seeds 4–6 weeks before the last frost date.
Outdoor: Plant seeds directly when all danger of frost is past, and the soil has warmed up to at least 70°F (21°C).

Can try sowing Ridge Gourd with sponge gourd

2. Seed Treatment
Scarification: Scratch or file with sandpaper or a nail file the seed coat to open it up for water uptake.
Soaking: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours to speed up germination.

3. Sponge gourd Seeds Starting Seeds Indoors
Containers: Use biodegradable pots since sponge gourd does not like its roots to be disturbed.
Soil: Use nutrient-rich, well-draining seed-starting mix.
Planting: Sow seeds about 1 inch deep.
Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Temperature: 70–85°F (21–29°C) for best germination also.
Light: Put pots in direct sun or under grow lights for 12–16 hours per day also.
Germination: Seeds typically take 7–14 days to germinate.

Lettuce Batavia can be a good companion

4. Sponge gourd  Direct Sowing Outdoors

Wait until the soil temperature consistently reaches at least 70°F (21°C).
Prepare the soil by loosening it and mixing in compost or well-rotted manure.
Sow seeds 1 inch deep and 2–3 feet apart in rows spaced 4–6 feet apart.
Water thoroughly after planting.

5. Transplanting Seedlings
If starting indoors, transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost when they have at least two sets of true leaves.
Harden off the seedlings in 7-10 days of gradual exposure to outdoor conditions.

6. Sponge gourd Seeds Soil and Position
Soil: Hence use Well-draining fertile soil rich in organic matter, 6.0-7.5 pH
Sunlight: Sunny location that receives at least 6 -8 hours of direct sunlight a day.

7. Support Structure
This is a very vigorous climber. It would need a stout trellis, fence, or pergola where the vines could cling.
Training the vines upward ensures straight, uniform fruits and saves space.

8. Sponge gourd Care and Maintenance
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Deep watering is ideal, especially during flowering and fruiting.
Lastly, Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) every 3–4 weeks. Switch to a high-potassium fertilizer during fruiting.