Growing Gourds

[gwarnerjr]

I am thinking of trying to grow some gourds and have some questions for everyone. Since I don't have an apple tree would a trellis like the ones for growing grapes work? How long and tall would it have to be for a couple of vines? Should it face E/W or N/S or would it make a difference? Thanks in advance.

[John & Linda - KY]

A trellis will work if it is strong enough to hold the weight of the vines and the maturing gourds. Otherwise the weight will either pull the trellis down or the weight of the gourds will pull the vines loose from the trellis. But you don't really need anything for them to climb on. Just plant them and let them grow like watermelons or pumpkins. But allow plenty of room for them to spread out, because they will take over a fairly large area. -- John