Japanese Foo Gwa - Bitter Melon/Bitter Gourd - Momordica charantia - 10 Seeds

Plant gourds if for no other reason than because they're fun! They come in a delightful, wacky array of shapes, colors, and sizes and are sure to bring a smile when you harvest them. Many will grow up fences and trellises, which makes them even more interesting and dramatic. Bittermelon is one of the most popular vegetables in China, Taiwan, Vietnam, India and the Philippines. Bittermelon, also called Bittergourd, Foo Gwa, or Balsam Pearhas an acquired taste. The plant is grown mainly for the immature fruits, though the young leaves and tips are also edible. The plant produces cucumber-like fruits that are pale white with pronounced bumps. The flavor is slightly bitter and makes an interesting addition to soups and stir-fries. Unique and easy to grow. Bitter melon is just starting to find its way in many American households but it has been grown in Indian and Chinese gardens for hundreds of years. It is excellent in dishes where a deep bitterness with a mild cucumber like crunch is needed. Common uses are in curries, with yogurt, stuffed with pork and steamed, or even in soups. It is also used in traditional Indian medicine, with many uses for all parts of the plant. Fertile, well drained soil is best. Germinate the seeds by first soaking in warm water for about 24 hours, then fold inside a wet paper towel and keep moist until they sprout. Plant immediately, directly in the garden in a tropical climate, or started as seedlings for transplant. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep. Warm temperatures and high humidity are ideal for this plant. Cold and wet conditions will cause germination to fail, and slow the growth. The vines grow up to 12 feet, and a trellis is the best way to manage this, and train the vines to grow out for the best air circulation.

• Crisp in texture and tender. It is best tasting when harvested young
• Best to harvest the bitter melon, or goya, early while still green and tender, at about one foot long
• Heirloom, Non-GMO
• You will receive 10 seeds
• Ships from Ohio