How To Grow Loofa in Southern Oregon

For those living in Southern Oregon, loofa may not be a crop they think of growing in their garden. However, loofa plants are a surprisingly easy crop to grow in the region which can bring immense satisfaction and many practical uses. Here is a quick guide on how to grow loofa in Southern Oregon.

Before planting, choose an area in your garden that has plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil. Loofa thrives in full sun and prefers temperatures between 65-85℉. Soils with higher pH levels, such as sandy loam or loamy soils, work best.

The next step is to buy seeds online or from a garden supply store. Loofa is a long-season crop and you should plant your seeds in early spring – ideally four to six weeks before the last frost. It's also important to soak the seeds overnight before planting.

Once planted, ensure your bed is watered regularly to encourage growth and keep the soil moist. A trick to keeping your loofa plants healthy is to add a layer of mulch around the plants. This helps to retain soil moisture and control weeds.

Depending on the variety of loofa you’ve planted, your crop should be ready for harvesting in late summer or early fall. The fruits will begin to turn brown and become more fibrous, signaling that it’s time to harvest. Pull the vines gently and hang them in a cool, dry area indoors. If done properly, the loofa gourds can last for up to a year.

Finally, enjoy the many uses of loofa! Using loofa in the shower is the most popular and common way it’s used, but it can also be utilised in crafts or for animal bedding. Growing your own loofa in Southern Oregon provides ample opportunities for a lifetime of crafting, scrubbing, and gardening enjoyment.