How long is the growth period of loofah

How long is the growth period of loofah

The growth cycle of loofah is about 50 days. It takes about 35-45 days from planting to the first harvest, and the harvesting period is about 50-60 days. The fruit must be harvested in time after it is ripe, otherwise it is easy to become fibrous, which affects both the yield and quality of the loofah.

The growth of loofah goes through several stages, including the seedling stage, vine sprouting stage, initial flowering and fruiting stage, peak fruiting stage, and aging stage. The plant can be planted all year round.

The growth process of loofah

1. Seedling stage: The seedling stage of loofah is the basic period for yield formation. The flower buds of the plant have begun to differentiate at this time, and the duration is about 15-25 days.

2. Vine growth period: This period is from the growth of true leaves to the opening of female flowers. It is a transition period to reproductive growth, which lasts about 20 days.

3. Peak fruit-bearing period: After the first loofah is harvested, it enters the peak fruit-bearing period. If properly maintained, the peak fruit-bearing period of the loofah can reach 5-6 months.

Maintenance and management of loofah during its growth period

1. Provide suitable growth temperature for loofah seedlings, which should be around 22°C. When the temperature is below 10°C, the plants will easily be frozen.

2. When the loofah vine grows to 6 cm, it is necessary to apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate in time and water it thoroughly to supplement the nutrients needed for plant growth.

3. When the loofah is in the vine-growing stage, it is necessary to build a frame for it in time, mainly a single-row vertical frame, which can increase the flowering and fruiting rate of the plant.