Kantola Desi Seeds / Spiny Gourd (Aakakarakaya / Cantola seeds)

Product Description

• Germination Time: 7-14 days
• Sunlight Requirement: 6-8 hours per day, in full sun
• Ideal Climate for Sowing: Warm climate; suitable for all-season growth, avoid extreme cold
• Plant Height: 3-4 feet
• Organic Fertilizer Requirement: 1-2 cups of decomposed cow dung or vermicompost per plant per week
• Life Span: 6-8 months
• Ideal Growing Temperature: 24-35°C
• Harvesting Time: 60-70 days after sowing
• Maintenance Required: Moderate
• Ideal Grow Bag Size: 12x12 grow bag, 12x24 grow bag, 24x24x12 rectangular grow bag, 36x24x12 grow bed
• Number of Seeds: 50+

Specifications of Kantola Seeds (Spiny Gourd)

Spiny Gourd, also known as Kantola or Aakakarakaya, is a vine plant cultivated for its edible fruits. It thrives in warm climates and is suitable for year-round cultivation, provided it is protected from extreme cold.

Benefits / Uses of Kantola

• Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron
• Nutrient-dense and low in calories, suitable for various culinary uses
• Open-pollinated seeds allow for reuse from harvested fruits

Planting and Care for Kantola

• Sowing Kantola Seeds: Plant seeds in well-draining soil or grow bags, 1/2 inch deep. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
• Growing Kantola: Requires ample sunlight and regular watering. Maintain soil fertility with organic fertilizers like cow dung or vermicompost.
• Harvesting Kantola: Fruits can be harvested 60-70 days after sowing. Harvest regularly to encourage continuous fruiting.

Precautions While Growing Kantola

• Ensure soil pH is neutral to slightly acidic (pH 6.0-7.0) for optimal growth.
• Protect plants from pests and diseases common to gourd family plants. Use organic methods or appropriate pesticides if necessary.
• Maintain good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Watch for pests like aphids and caterpillars, and diseases such as powdery mildew. Use natural remedies or approved pesticides.
• Monitor soil moisture to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Other Names

• Botanical Name: Momordica dioica
• Telugu: ఆకాకరకాయ (Aakakarakaya)
• Hindi: कंटोला (Kantola)
• Bengali: কাঁটালা (Kantola)
• Marathi: कांटोला (Kantola)
• Gujarati: કાંટોલા (Kantola)

No. of Kantola Seeds in a Packet

• 45+ seeds