At a glimpse
virulent melon vine , also know as biting gourds or Momordica charantia , are a unequaled andnutritious veggie prizedfor their distinct nip and medicative properties . Growingbitter melonscan be a rewarding experience , and with the right noesis and care , you’re able to enjoy the fruits of your labor in your garden . This comprehensive guide will furnish you with step - by - step instructions andexpert tipson how to plant a vitriolic melon vine and cultivate a bountiful harvest .
1. Selecting the Right Seeds and Soil
Choose gamey - caliber blistering melon seeds from reputable author . Theideal soilforbitter melon cultivationis well - drained , fertile , and has a pH range between 6.0 and 6.8 . Amend the soil withorganic mattersuch as compost or manure to improve its complex body part and fertility .
2. Preparing the Seedbed
Prepare the seedbed by tilling the filth to a depth of 12 - 18 inches . Create lift beds if necessary toensure good drainage . Space the seeds 2 - 3 inches aside and sow them 1/2inch deepin the land . urine the seedbed thoroughly .
3. Germination and Transplanting
Bitter melon seed typically germinate within 7 - 10 Clarence Shepard Day Jr. . Once the seedlings have make grow their first set oftrue leaves , reduce them to one plant per hill . Transplant the seedlings into their permanent location when they are 4 - 6inches tall . Space the flora 3 - 4 feet aside in rows 6 - 8 feet asunder .
4. Providing Support
biting melon vines arevigorous climbers , so cater them withadequate documentation . treillage , fences , or bamboo stakes can be used to train the vines and keep them off the soil .
5. Watering and Fertilizing
irrigate the bitter melon vine plant regularly , especially during live anddry weather . Avoid overwatering , as it can lead to root decomposition . inseminate the plant life every 2 - 3 calendar week with a balanced fertilizer .
6. Pollination and Fruit Development
Bitter melon vine plants ask pollination toproduce fruit . further pollenation byattracting beesand other pollinators to your garden . The distaff flowers will develop into yield after pollination .
7. Harvesting
Bitter melon vine are quick to harvest when they are fully matured and have a deep green color . The skin should beslightly wrinkledand the fruit shouldfeel firm . reap thebitter melonsby cutting them from the vine using sharp shears or a tongue .
8. Storage
Store bitter melons in a cool , wry place . They can be go along for up to 2 weeks in the icebox .
Tips for Success
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q : Canbitter melonsbe grown in containers?A : Yes , bitter melonscan be grown in container as long as they are turgid enough and have tolerable drainage holes . Q : How long does it take forbitter melonsto grow?A : From seed to harvest , bitter melons typicallytake 60 - 90 day to maturate . Q : What are thehealth benefitsof bitter melons?A : Bitter melonsare rich in vitamins , minerals , and antioxidant . They have been traditionally used tosupport blood boodle rule , digestion , and immune function .