Luffa Paradise

 Luffa is a fascinating plant. Also known as the Sponge Gourd, all parts of the Luffa plant can be used medicinally. It has been used to prevent and treat colds, soothe arthritis, and enhance immune systems. It can be eaten when young or, when allowed to grow beyond its edible stage, can be harvested for use as sponges. Luffa’s can grow more than 30 feet long and produce 2 foot long gourds. Our trellis system is a hodgepodge of materials saved from the great garage purge of 2020.

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Almost ready! Luffa's gourds grown for the fibrous sponge should be allowed to brown on the vine. This will make removing the skin much easier!
Not yet! Not yet! Resist the urge to harvest luffa gourds early. The skin will be easier to peel and seeds will have had the chance to develop to maturity... with just a little patience.
Harvesting luffa seeds... with some help.
Luffa seed harvest time is family time. No lack of garden helpers here!
Harvesting luffa. "Okay, okay... who's turn is it now?"
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Is it luffa or loofah?
Luffa Seeds and Sponge
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The Fall 2021 Garden