Birdhouse Gourd

Birdhouse Gourd lets you grow your own birdhouse from seed. These hard-shelled heirloom gourds have been used for centuries, originating with African cultures, and remain popular today for creating natural bird homes. After drying for 3 to 6 months, the seeds inside can be shaken loose through an entrance hole you cut.

At a glance

• Variety: Birdhouse Gourd
• Type: Heirloom, non-GMO, hard-shell gourd
• Use: Birdhouses, crafts, decoration
• Drying time: 3 to 6 months
• Sun: Full sun

Best for

• Making natural birdhouses
• Crafts and painting projects
• Fall and harvest decor
• Family and kid-friendly gardening
• Trellised vining gardens

How to grow

Direct sow after the last frost once soil has warmed, in full sun, and provide a sturdy trellis for the long vines. Let gourds mature fully on the vine, then cure for 3 to 6 months until the shell is hard and the seeds rattle inside. Cut an entrance hole, clean out the seeds, then paint or decorate.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based company known for affordable heirloom seeds that help home gardeners grow more from every packet.