Bitter Gourd, F1 Hybrid - ARASTU (Summer Late Variety)

10 seeds in the pack.

ARASTU is a vigorous F1 Hybrid Bitter Gourd variety that produces attractive, dark-green fruits with a deeply ridged and textured surface. It is suitable for late-season sowing and can be grown successfully in rooftop gardens, kitchen gardens, grow bags, large pots and open soil.

The variety performs best with rich soil, regular moisture, strong climbing support and sufficient morning sunlight.

Growing Instructions

Sowing season: 20 June to 15 August

Sowing method: Use direct sowing only. Soak seeds in clean water overnight or for 4–5 hours before sowing. Sow 2 seeds approximately 1–1.5 inches deep in the final container and retain the strongest plant after germination.

Container: Grow one plant in a 12 × 12-inch grow bag, 11 × 10-inch grow bag or 12-inch clay pot. Ensure proper drainage.

Soil: Use rich, soft and well-draining soil:

• 50% Bhalu Mitti

• 50% organic matter, preferably vermicompost

Sunlight: Provide 6–8 hours of morning sunlight. During extreme heat, start in bright shade and shift the young plant gradually into sunlight.

Trellis: Install a strong bamboo, metal or net trellis early. Guide the vine upward and allow fruits to hang freely.

Watering: Keep the soil evenly moist but never waterlogged. Water when the upper soil layer begins to dry and ensure quick drainage during rainfall.

Feeding: Add vermicompost before sowing and apply a balanced vegetable fertilizer during active growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which may produce more leaves and fewer fruits.

Pollination: If fruit setting is poor, hand-pollinate female flowers early in the morning using pollen from a freshly opened male flower.

Care: Maintain good airflow, remove yellow or diseased leaves and inspect regularly for aphids, whiteflies, mites, fruit flies and fungal problems.

Harvesting: Harvest fruits while they are young, tender, firm and dark green. Regular harvesting encourages continued production.

Quick Summary: Late variety, direct sowing, one plant per 12 × 12-inch grow bag, rich well-draining soil, strong trellis and 6–8 hours of morning sunlight.