How To Grow Bitter Melon In Your Garden
March 4, 2023
Bitter melon is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean for its edible fruit. The fruit is rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and has been used in traditional medicine to regulate glucose levels, improve digestion, and help protect against infection. Bitter melon has a bitter taste and is often used in soups and stir-fries, as well as in pickles, jams, and drinks. It has even been proposed as a potential treatment or cure for cancer, although more research is needed in this area.
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) is a healthy, nutrient-rich edible melon that can be grown in most tropical and subtropical climates. It is an easy to care for plant that requires no specialist knowledge and can yield an abundance of nutritious fruit. Growing this plant in your garden can make a great addition to an overall healthy lifestyle.
Choose The Right Variety Of Bitter Melon
Bitter melon comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it's important to choose the variety that best suits your garden. You might consider the GreenFingers bitter melon, which is the most commonly grown variety in Europe and has a mild flavour, or the extra-bitter Chinese variety. There are even varieties with a yellow colour, such as the Asian long green variety.
The Best Time To Plant Bitter Melon
For optimal growth, it's best to plant bitter melon during the early summer months of June and July when warm temperatures prevail. Planting during this time will ensure a bountiful harvest of melons in late summer and early fall.
How to Prepare the Soil
Bitter melon requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and moisture. To prepare the soil, mix a generous amount of compost with the soil and dig it deep into the ground. This will help retain moisture and provide antioxidant-rich nourishment for the plant.
How to Plant The Seeds
Seeds should be planted at a depth of roughly 1 1/2 inches in rows that are about 3 feet apart. Once the seeds have germinated, thin them out so that only the strongest plants remain.
Caring For The Plant
During the growing season, keep the soil moist by regularly watering the plants. Mulch can be applied around the plants in the late summer to help retain moisture during dry spells. Bitter melon generally takes between 60 and 90 days to mature and can be harvested when the melons are 5 to 6 inches long.
Conclusion
With the right variety, soil preparation and caring methods, you can successfully grow bitter melon in your garden and enjoy its delicious, nutrient-rich fruit. Growing bitter melon can even provide additional health benefits to your overall lifestyle.
