Bottle Gourd Bulb Shape, F1 Hybrid BOLBY – Summer Late Variety

10 seeds in the pack. 

BOLBY is a vigorous F1 Hybrid Bottle Gourd variety that produces attractive light-green fruits with a distinctive bulb or pear shape. It is especially suitable for late-season sowing during hot and humid weather and can be grown successfully in rooftop gardens, kitchen gardens, grow bags, large pots and open soil beds.

This variety performs best when given rich soil, regular moisture, strong climbing support and sufficient morning sunlight. Its vigorous vine growth and attractive fruit shape make it an excellent choice for home gardeners seeking productive summer vegetables.

📢Important Note: The seeds are Thiram-treated for protection against certain seed-borne and soil-borne fungal problems. Treated seeds are for sowing only and must not be consumed.  

Growing Instructions

Sowing Season

Best sowing period: 20 June to 15 August (Recommended for Hot Climate Areas) 

Sowing Method

• Use direct sowing; do not prepare seedlings.

• 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.

• After germination, retain the strongest plant only.

Pot / Grow Bag

Grow one plant per container.

Recommended options:

• 12 × 12-inch grow bag

• 11 × 10-inch grow bag

• 12-inch clay pot

Ensure sufficient drainage holes.

Soil Mix

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, begin in a bright shaded location and gradually shift the young plant into sunlight.

Trellis

Install a strong bamboo, metal or net trellis early. Guide the vine upward and allow fruits to hang freely for proper bulb shape.

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

Male flowers usually appear first. If fruits are not setting, hand-pollinate female flowers early in the morning using pollen from a freshly opened male flower.

Care Tips

• Maintain good airflow.

• Remove weak, yellow or diseased leaves.

• Protect young plants from harsh afternoon sunlight.

• Check regularly for aphids, whiteflies, mites, fruit flies and fungal problems.

• Avoid overcrowding and standing water.

Harvesting

Harvest fruits while they are young, tender, smooth and light green. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit 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.

📢Important Note: Thiram-Treated Seeds, Do not use these seeds for food, feed or oil purposes.