Our gourds are finally beginning to dry. We were wondering when, if ever, we'd be able to open one up, remove the seeds, and actually get a dipper gourd. Here it is, our first! dipper gourd ( photo / image / picture from marlingardener's Garden ) It is one of the smaller ones, but we're thrilled anyway!
Be aware, as you probably are, the 'handle' is hollow; so any liquid dipped into the gourd can/will flow through the hollow handle and out the 'hanger-string' hole onto your clothes, shoes, floor, etc.. I love it! Are you in the Purple Martin flyway? If you are, they love the 'apartment' complex constructed with gourds... Hank
I could find quite a few uses for a gourd like that Jane. I like your scoop as it has a nice wide 'mouth' compared to shop bought ones.
Judging from this first one, it looks like you are going to have good success. Can't wait to see more. Well done.
Nice Jane. Something for me to try. So how long did it take to dry? And what did you have to do to dry them?
We have LOTS of gourds! I thought we might get one gourd per vine, so I planted five vines. Note to self--do not plant five vines again. Drying is relatively easy, but it takes a goodly amount of time. We found that letting the gourds hang on the vine until they turn brown works best. We have had one picked at the light green stage drying on an outside table for a month, with no sign of being dry enough to cut. The gourd on the kitchen wall is just for show. I have my eye on a curved neck one I want to use for a chicken feed scoop, and another that will make a good bird feeder (if they ever dry!).
