Discover essential facts about cultivating bottle gourd, from soil preparation to ideal harvesting techniques. This quiz covers key aspects of bottle gourd farming for new and aspiring horticulturists.
Which season is generally best for sowing bottle gourd seeds in tropical regions?
Explanation: Summer provides the warm temperatures and long daylight hours that bottle gourd requires for healthy growth. Winter tends to be too cold, autumn may not offer enough light or warmth, and late monsoon could expose plants to excessive moisture, increasing disease risks.
What type of soil is most suitable for growing bottle gourd plants successfully?
Explanation: Well-drained loamy soil retains enough moisture while allowing good drainage, ideal for bottle gourd roots. Heavy clay restricts air and water flow, sandy desert soils lack nutrients and water retention, and waterlogged soils increase root disease risks.
At what approximate depth should bottle gourd seeds be sown for optimal germination?
Explanation: Sowing seeds 2-3 cm deep provides sufficient soil cover and moisture without hindering sprouting. 0.5 cm is too shallow and may dry out, 5-7 cm is too deep and slows emergence, and 10 cm hinders germination.
Which irrigation method is most commonly recommended for bottle gourd to prevent diseases like powdery mildew?
Explanation: Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the root zone, keeping leaves dry and reducing disease risk. Overhead sprinklers wet foliage, increasing infection risk; flood irrigation can cause waterlogging, and no irrigation is inadequate for optimal growth.
When is the right time to harvest bottle gourd fruits for the best taste and texture?
Explanation: Harvesting young, tender gourds ensures the best flavor and texture. If harvested after skin hardens or yellows, fruits become tough and less palatable. Waiting for wilt or the season's end often results in over-mature gourds.