Common name:
Sponge gourd / Luffa

Origin:
India                           

Minimum temperature:
5 degC

Description:
With this plant it is possible to grow your own sponge. The young green fruits can be eaten fresh like cucumber, or can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable. However, if you keep the fruits attached to the plant or let them dry somewhere else, the fruits become light and can be used as a sponge. The fruits can grow up to 60 cm, and are among others used in Africa as a skincare product. The plant has its origin in India, grows fast, and can be kept as an annual plant in a cold greenhouse or at a sheltered, sunny place in the garden.

Sowing description:
Let the seeds soak for several hours in lukewarm water, and sow them in potting soil.

Sowing time:
November – June

Level of difficulty:
Intermediate