SNAKE GOURD

Propogation and planting

Seed rate

Approximately 3.0-4.0 kg of seeds are required for cultivating one hectare of land.

Planting

January-March and September-December are the ideal seasons for growing snake gourd. For the rain fed crop, sowing can be started after the receipt of first few showers during May-June.

Prepare the soil to a fine tilth by ploughing and harrowing. Pits of 60 cm diameter and 30-45 cm depth are taken at a spacing of 2m x 2m. Well rotten FYM and fertilizers are mixed with topsoil in the pit. Soak the seeds overnight in water for better and quicker germination. Soaking seeds in 0.2 % bavistin for 6 hours and drying in shade reduce the attack of soil born fungus.  A pre-sowing irrigation 3-4 days before sowing is beneficial. Sow four or five seeds in a pit at 1-2 cm depth. Deeper sowing delays germination. Irrigate with a rose can daily.  The seeds germinate in about 4-5 days. Unhealthy plants are removed after two weeks and only three plants are retained per pit.

In high range zone, seedlings can be raised in greenhouses to ensure good germination and are later transplanted to the main-field. Sow two or three seeds in small plastic pots filled with potting mixture. Transplant 15-20 days old seedlings into the field at 2m x 2m spacing.

Last updated: 10-06-2008