Turks Turban Gourd

Turks Turban Gourd is an heirloom, open-pollinated variety that dates back to the 1820s. These gourds resemble a turban with a an enlarged stem end and smaller blossom end. The larger end is orange and has a diameter of 7-9", while the smaller end has beautiful silver, green and white stripes. Fruits average 3-5 lbs and plants will average 2-3 fruits per plant. Trellis for consistently-sized fruit. This is a great variety for fall decorating as fruits will maintain their vibrant color once harvested.

Gourds may be direct seeded or transplanted, although we highly recommend direct seeding. To ensure a good stand, we recommend planting Seeds every 12" along the intended row. Once plants emerge, thin plants to one every 2 feet. Gourds can be susceptible to plant diseases like downy mildew and powdery mildew if leaves receive excess moisture. As a result, we recommend using drip irrigation on winter squash to reduce plant moisture and feed plants more effectively. During periods of heavy rainfall, using a fungicide like Liquid Copper can help to alleviate disease pressure as well.

Gourds are a crop that will produce a one-time harvest at the end of the growing season. They should be harvested when plants die back and the fruits obtain their full color. Stem hardness is also an indication of fruit maturity. Once stems harden, fruits are ready for harvest using a set of pruning shears. Once gourds are harvested, remove the plants from the garden to prevent any fungal spores from overwintering and becoming a problem in future years. Proper crop rotation is extremely important with all gourd varieties to reduce disease and pest pressure.

Turks Turban Gourd Planting Information

Planting Method: direct seed

When to Plant: after last frost

Planting Depth: 1/2"

Seed Spacing: 18-24"

Row Spacing: 5-6'

Days to Maturity: 125

Disease Resistance: None