Luffa aka Loofah seeds can be hard to germinate because of their hard shells. Follow my process to get rapid germination.
Find the video version of this tutorial on my YouTube channel
Did you know luffa is an edible gourd when harvested at an young stage? Many say the flavor and texture is like zucchini but better. Harvest the gourds before they get longer than 7-8 inches for the best flavor and texture.
There are two types of Luffa. Some are better for eating and others better for harvesting sponges.
- Smooth luffa Luffa aegyptica - best for harvesting sponges because they are easier to peel. It can be eaten when harvested young.
- Angled luffa Luffa acutangula - best for eating because it has thick/meaty interior flesh. Not the best for harvesting sponges because the angular sides make it hard to peel the skin off.
By the way, if your not interested in growing luffa for the sponges, try growing it simply because it is such a beautiful statement piece in the garden. Everyone who sees this plant in my garden stops to admire. The large yellow blooms attract loads of pollinators and butterflies. The vines grow rapidly and can cover fences for added privacy, add a decorative touch to porch railing, or try growing up a tree!
Easy Steps for Rapid Germination
1. Knick the seeds on the side to create a hole so water can penetrate and soften up the shell. I use a small nail clipper.
2. Place the seeds in a cup/container and add warm water. Place this cup over a heat mat to keep the water warm. Soak for 24 hours.
3. Sow the seeds 1 inch deep in solo cups or at minimum 4 inch pots. Luffa grows quickly and benefits by being started in a bigger size container.
4. Place all of your sowed cups in a box (preferably a plastic box), and place the entire box over the heat mat. Seal the top of the box shut with plastic wrap, aluminum foil, etc.... This will create a "green house" that will trap heat and humidity.
5. Seedlings should start to emerge in 3-5 days. They require light once they sprout so move under some grow lights or expose to outdoor sunlight (if its not cold outside). They are ready to transplant in about 6 weeks once their root system takes over the solo cup, but before they become root bound.
Find seeds for luffa on my website.