What Kind of Soil Do Gourds Like?

Soil Quality

• Loose, well-draining soil results in the best root development and gourd growth. Sites where standing water or soggy soil is common after rain or watering won't work well for gourds. Slightly sandy soil that's rich in organic matter works best, because the sand allows excess water to drain while the organic matter retains just enough moisture so the soil doesn't dry completely. The site must get at least six to eight hours of direct sun daily for best growth.

Organic Amendments

• Compost increases the organic content in the soil, which improves proper moisture retention while adding trace nutrients to the bed. Add compost before you plant the gourds so you can fully incorporate it into the garden site. Generally, a 2-inch layer of compost tilled into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil improves it enough to grow gourds. A thicker, 4-inch layer can improve poorer draining sites or extremely sandy beds that drain too quickly. Although compost works well, you can also use well-composted manure.

Fertilizer

• A pre-planting application of a 5-10-5 slow-release fertilizer supplies the initial nutrients needed for early plant growth. Gourds don't need high amounts of nitrogen. Work 4 pounds of the fertilizer into the top 6 inches of soil of every 50 feet of row. A second application of 2 pounds of 5-10-5 per 50 foot row, applied four weeks after planting, provides the nutrients required for the rest of the growing season. Make this application along the row, 6 inches from the plants, and water it in immediately after applying it.

Moisture

• Even soil moisture, especially during the early and middle of the season, results in the best gourd development. Gourds usually need watering once a week, although more frequent watering is sometimes necessary during hot, dry weather. Applying 1 to 2 inches of water at each watering, which thoroughly soaks the top 6 to 8 inches of soil, is usually enough. Keep the gourd plant leaves dry during watering or water the plants in the morning so the leaves dry before evening. Mulches can help retain the moisture in the soil.