Is there an effective method to dry gourds?
Wisconsin’s climate doesn’t allow gourds to cure on the vine. They must be picked before a frost, but a blanket over the plants might protect against light frosts and allow a few days or weeks of additional maturing on the vine. Gourds should be harvested once temperatures drop below 30 degrees. Only the mature gourds will keep well. They are ripe when the stems turn brown and die. Harvest gourds with a sharp knife, cutting the stem several inches from the gourd. Don’t handle gourds by the stem and take care not to bruise the gourd. Wash gently in warm, soapy water. Rinse in cold water to which a household disinfectant has been added. This reduces chances of rot and mold damage. Spread gourds out on newspapers in a warm, dry place such as a garage or porch. Do not place in basement, an unventilated room or a plastic bag. Throw away all gourds that start to spoil or shrink. This prevents spread of mold to other gourds. After 3-4 weeks the gourds should be ready. Gourds may be kept longe
