Bradshaw's Birdhouse Gourd Seeds, Heirloom, Organic

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange - Bradshaw'sBirdhouse Gourds (Lagenaria siceraria) For over 50 years, Dr. David Bradshaw has been selecting the strongest and best-shaped gourds for Purple Martin (Progne subis subis) birdhouses. This species, the largest American swallow, suffered a population crash in the 20th Century due to the spread of European Starlings, and the birds now rely on humans for nesting houses. It is thought that without our assistance, Purple Martins would be in danger of extinction. Monitor your birdhouses to prevent take-over by aggressive, non-native birds. Purple Martins eat mosquitoes and many other insect pests. The sprawling plants produce up to 12 gourds each. Check out our Purple Martin Condominiums guide by David Bradshaw. (Click for PDF.) Small 2g packet has about 22 seeds.

Characteristics: 

• Fruits grow to 14 inches by 12 inches
• Vines grow 15-35 feet
• Make excellent birdhouses
• 95 days
• 25 Seeds

Instructions - Sow seeds outdoors in 12" diameter hills after danger of frost has passed. Hills should be spaced 6' apart in all directions. Can also be started indoors 6 weeks before transplanting out in shorter season areas.

• Plant 1/2" deep
• Hill 6-8 seeds together
• Thin to 3-4 plants
• Light: Full Sun

Firefly Farm & Mercantile may substitute based on supplier availability