What Is an Ash Gourd?

Description

• The ash gourd does not resemble the traditional gourd. Instead, it looks much like a white watermelon or pumpkin. The pumpkinlike vine features thick stems with coarse hair, large yellow flowers and triangular leaves that grow up to 10 inches long. Although it appears white, the fruit actually features a thin, green skin coated with a layer of white wax. The gourd may grow up to 40 lbs., with the average gourd falling in the 15- to 20-lb. classification. The flesh of the ash gourd is firm and white. The middle of the fruit contains pith and small seeds. Once fully mature, the melon will keep for up to 12 months.

Preferred Growing Conditions

• The ash gourd is both drought tolerant and able to grow in a variety of different climates. Southern areas of the United States often produce two crops per year. Although the plant reaches full maturity in five months, the fruit is often harvested at different stages of growth. Ash gourd grows well in compost-heavy, well-draining soils once temperatures are between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. A pH level of 5.5 to 6.4 is recommended by the Centre for Plant and Water Science of Central Queensland University in Australia. With no need to be trellised, the ash gourd grows well in both rows or in traditional melon hills featuring four to five plants per hill.

Maintenance

• Fertilize with manure and nitrogen until the plant flowers, advises CQ University. Irrigation should occur every three to four days during the initial stages of growth with an increase to every other day during flowering and fruiting. Like other melons, the growing points can be nipped and moved to train the plants. Flowering generally occurs 60 to 80 days after planting. The fruit sets best in warm weather, with pollination aided by honeybees and hand pollination techniques. Once fruit is set, straw under each fruit will reduce marks from the ground. In order to grow large gourds, only one fruit per lateral branch is recommended. Common pests include fruit fly, red pumpkin beetle, aphids and epilachna beetle. Powdery mildew and mosaic are common diseases for ash gourds. Applications of insecticides and fungicide reduce pest and disease problems, but should be made at least 10 days before harvest.

Harvesting and Use

• Ash gourds are harvested at all stages of growth. The leaves and flowers are edible and used in soups and various other Asian cuisine. Gourd harvesting generally begins three to four weeks after the fruit sets, when the gourd is approximately 4 inches long, and continues until it is overgrown. It is featured in condiments, curries, soups, hotpots and lightly steamed as a side dish. The rind can be pickled and served as a relish.

Storage

• After harvest, wipe the ash gourd clean of dirt while being careful to leave the white wax on the outside of the fruit. Immature melons may be stored in a cool, dry place for up to three weeks. By placing pale side down on ventilated shelves without touching each other, the mature melons last between six to 12 months in storage. Ash gourds may also be hung in nets or sacks for storage.