Gourds Running Rampant

So, we are growing gourds again this year.  I love gourds because they come in such a variety of sizes and shapes.  I even wrote a blog about them last year: 


http://windyacresnaturalfarm.blogspot.com/2011/04/birdhouse-gourds.html

But, last year was a disastrous year all around because of the drought and the endless days of triple digit temperatures we had.  So, I don't think we had many, if any, gourds to show for it.  And, although we have had quite a few 100+ degree days already, this year is somewhat better and I think we may have some nice gourds to show for it.


Tom built a new raised bed on the east side of my herb garden and I planted gourds in this bed.  Now, as you probably know, gourds are vining plants and have vines that may be 20 feet long.  Here is a picture of our gourd vines on June 7.

And, here they are today.

They have reached our Mulberry tree and are beginning climb it!  In the lower left corner, notice the gourd.  Here is a better picture of it.

I've seen several others in that mass of vines as well and they are still blooming.  These are all "birdhouse" gourds.  And, although they make excellent birdhouses, they can also be painted and made into objects of art, too.  


So, if all goes well, Tom will have plenty of gourds to work on and keep him occupied this winter!