Cucurbits

Cucurbits are thought to be one of the first types of plants to be cultivated in history. They are thought to be originally cultivated in the region of present-day Mexico and Central America. Squash, zucchini, cucumber, bottle gourd, bitter gourd, and snake gourd are all Cucurbits!

Maximizing Cucurbit Yield

  • Most cucurbits can grow to a big size, but it’s best to pick the fruits when they are at a medium age to get the best taste and texture.

  • Water at the base of your plant to prevent diseases like powdery mildew. It may be a little difficult once the gourd grows larger, but it is essential in preventing diseases that might kill the plant and surrounding plants.

  • For climber varieties, you should train the plant while young by tying a rock to make sure the gourd grows straight, not curly. They should also not touch the ground, for the fruit will have a flat side rather than a round shape throughout. 

  • There are also bush and non-climber varieties, which are especially suitable if you have a small garden.

Bush Varieties (non-climber) can be grown in pots similar to the setup above.

  • Direct sowing is better than transplanting cucurbits. Cucurbits have complex root systems, so direct sowing can benefit their root system’s development and reduce transplant shock.

Having good spacing between the plants, air circulation, fitting temperatures, good watering techniques, and crop rotations are important in preventing diseases and pests.

Pests and Disease:

  • A disease that affects most cucurbits is powdery mildew. This fungal disease is white or gray, covering all of the plant's leaves and stems. The disease can inhibit photosynthesis, leading to poor fruit development. 

  •  A pest that affects most cucurbits is the cucumber beetle. They are yellow or green and have black stripes or spots. Row covers and handpicking are effective in managing a small infestation, while using neem spray and peppermint repellant can help with large infestations. 

References: Unsplash, All About Gardening, Almanac, Kid’s gardening, Aces, MiracleGro, Eartheasy

Cucurbits Info Chart

When to Harvest Cucurbits (*may depend on variety):

  • Squashes & zucchini: Fruit feels firm

  • Cucumbers: Fruit feels firm and has a dark green color

  • Bottle gourd, Bitter gourd & Snake Gourd: Vine next to the gourd starts to dry and the gourd’s color starts to dull