Bitter Melon seed, sprout and seedling pictures





Here is the picture of bittermelon sprout.




Bitter melon seed sprouting is very easy. You don't need to nick the seeds.



Here is how to germinate bitter melon seeds.


Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 12 to 15 hrs. I do it in foam egg carton. You can do it in cups too.

Now remove the seeds from water and place it in moist paper towel again inside the egg carton or plastic sandwitch bag or zipper bag.
Keep it near heating vent or warm place were it gets temperature around 75-80f.
If you are using egg carton keep lid closed for extra moisture and warmth.

Check everyday and make sure that it should not dry out.

After few days (a week to ten days) you will see sprouts. When you see sprouts don't plant it in soil but wait for next 12 to 18 hrs.
At this point you will see the hard shell (seed cover) will come off itself from the seed.

Now place it in moist soil. Just burry the tiny root you see but do not burry the cotyledons.

Keep the soil moist but do not overwater it.

At this point it needs sunlight so place it uder shop light or on sunny window sill.

If outside temperature stays above 70f you can plant directly in your garden vegitable bed.
In zone 5 it is a good idea to plant it after memorial day (may end).
When it gets 3-4 inch big it needs trellis or support.





Here is the picture of few days old seedling of bittermelon.

To add a comment please login by clicking here