Benincasa hispida
TAXONOMY
FamilyCucurbitaceae
GenusBenincasa
Zone10
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Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Benincasa hispida, commonly known as winter melon, ash gourd, or white gourd, is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family. Native to South and Southeast Asia, this plant thrives in wet tropical climates. It is an annual or subshrub that scrambles along the ground or climbs with the help of tendrils. The fruit is large, oblong, and covered with a waxy coating, which gives it a long shelf life.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cucurbita Alba
Cucurbita Farinosa
Cucurbita Littoralis
Cucurbita Vacua
Cucurbita Villosa
Gymnopetalum Septemlobum
Pepo Farinosus
Pepo Villosus
Winter Melon
Benincasa cerifera
Benincasa cylindrica
Benincasa hispida var. chieh-qua
Benincasa hispida var. hispida
Benincasa pruriens
Benincasa pruriens f. hispida
Benincasa vacua
Cucurbita hispida
Cucurbita pruriens
Lagenaria dasystemon
Lagenaria leucantha var. clavata
Lagenaria leucantha var. hispida
Lagenaria siceraria var. hispida
Lagenaria vulgaris var. hispida
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterWet
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity70%
GDD1,800
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Winter melon requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and prefers moderate temperatures. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.Harvest
Benincasa hispida, commonly known as winter melon or ash gourd, should be harvested when the fruit reaches full size and the skin turns a pale green or whitish color, typically around 120 days after planting. To harvest, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the fruit from the vine, leaving a small portion of the stem attached to the fruit. It is important to handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising. Harvesting should be done in dry weather to prevent the fruit from rotting. After harvesting, the fruit can be stored in a cool, dry place for several months.Soil
Winter melon prefers well-draining loamy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. A soil mix rich in organic matter will support its vigorous growth. Ensure the soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to support its rapid growth and fruit development.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for winter melon as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if started indoors, transplant seedlings to a larger container or directly into the garden once they have a few true leaves and the risk of frost has passed.Propagation
Winter melon is propagated by seeds. Sow seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost date. Plant seeds about 1 inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist until germination.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for winter melon to encourage healthy growth and fruit production. Remove any dead or diseased leaves and trim back excessive growth to improve air circulation and light penetration.Toxicity
Winter melon is not toxic to pets or humans. The fruit is edible and commonly used in culinary dishes across Asia. However, as with any plant, it is advisable to avoid consuming any parts that are not typically eaten.Additional
Winter melon is known for its cooling properties and is often used in traditional medicine to treat heat-related ailments. The fruit can be stored for several months due to its waxy coating, making it a valuable crop in regions with limited growing seasons.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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