How Long Does It Take for a Bitter Melon Seed to Sprout?

Growing a Bitter Melon Plant

• Whether grown as an ornamental plant, or grown in order to harvest the green fruit, bitter melon vines thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.7, and can grow very quickly in a warm, humid environment. While the seeds can be sown directly into soil that is between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit, bitter melon seeds have a long germination, and may need up to 30 days to sprout.

Getting a Head Start on Sprouting

• Given the bitter melon's need for a long growing season, the seeds can be started indoors, four to six weeks before the last frost. Soak the seeds in water for a few hours, or lightly crack the seed husk, being careful to not damage the germ inside. Spread the soaked seeds in a single layer between moist paper towels, place them in a plastic bag and set them in a warm place. The top of the refrigerator works, if you don't have a waterproof seeding heat mat.

Watch for the Sprouts

• After a week or so, do a daily check of the bitter melon seeds for signs of sprouting. Between 20 to 30 days, if not sooner, the sprouts will begin to grow. Be sure to keep the paper towels moist. When the sprouts are well-established, they can be transplanted to a rich growing medium.

Transplanting to the Garden

• Once the sprouts have grown to sturdy seedlings, thin to the strongest ones and begin to harden them off by setting them outside for increasing periods of time daily until they are adapted to their new environment. Plant them in a frost-free area, when daytime temperatures are consistently 75 to 80 degrees F. With a little planning ahead, bitter melon plants can be started early enough to be enjoyed all summer.