Hardshell gourd seed is VERY TOUGH! And this could be an understatement - To make sure your germination is successful, I have found the following method very effective.
- Clip the edges on top, of your seed. Any of the hard shell seeds will be tough. Especially the dark brown seed.
- Then soak the seed for 12 hours in a warm tea mix. The Tanin in the tea, is known for softening the harder, outer shell of the gourd seed. This enables the seed to easily break thru the shell.
- Then, the next day when you are ready to plant, drain the seed, and sow the damp seed immediately into the ground.
NOTE: BEWARE OF BIRDS - My first year, I needed to replant a couple of times, as the turkey's and crows thought my seed was scrumptious! Now I know to watch for them.