Grow a Loofah

This multi-purpose vegetable is easy to grow and fun to use as natural sponges for the bath. Let’s grow a loofah!

The genus Luffa is a tropical and subtropical vine from the squash and gourd family that also looks like a cucumber. It’s also called a sponge gourd and the Luffa spelling can also be loofa or loofah. These natural sponges are sought after because they are plant-based, but the fruits can also be eaten like a squash. As a bonus, the yellow flowers and leaves are also edible, making this plant a worthwhile addition to your garden.

How To Grow a Loofah

Loofah grows similarly to other squashes and cucumbers, needing a strong support system to climb up. It’s not advisable to grow along the ground like some pumpkins and squashes because the fruit is closer to the shape of a cucumber and needs the vertical structure to hang straight and give the fruit space to grow. There are plants available from specialist growers and the seeds are readily available at online stores. Seed can be sown in spring in seed trays or straight into the ground, leaving lots of space between them to accommodate the length of the vines which can reach up to 10m. They will also shoot horizontal branches, so avoid planting near other vegetables. Fruit will be ready for harvest from seed sowing in about 95 days.

There are two main types of loofah: Luffa aegyptiaca and Luffa acutangular, with many varieties within these groups. They have the same basic growing requirements but may differ in certain aspects. With the seed not being readily available in a garden centre, for example, rather just grow what you can get, and don’t worry too much about the cultivar. They will all make fruit, which is what we are after.

Position – they need lots of sun to produce good fruit. At least 6-8 hours of sunlight is best.
Soil – well-draining soil, enriched with added compost, bonemeal or superphosphate and organic slow-release fertiliser. Rich soil is best.
Water – needs consistent water but must have well-draining soil so as not to get waterlogged. Like other squashes, avoid watering the leaves which could invite pests and diseases.
Feeding – apply a monthly feed of slow-release organic fertiliser.
Pests and diseases – look out for powdery mildew on these plants and treat immediately with a copper-based fungicide.

Sponge Revealing

To reveal the loofah sponges from the fruit, it’s best to leave the fruit on the plant until the outside has turned from green to dark brown, it feels light, and sounds hollow. Cut the gourds from the vines with a sharp knife, leaving a few centimetres of stem attached. Remove the skin, shake out the seeds and then rinse in water. Allow to dry and you have your own natural sponges!

Fun Fact

In some countries, like Paraguay, the fibres of the loofah plant are mixed with other vegetables and recycled plastic to make panels that are used in construction to build with or to make furniture.

READ MORE: Makes these handmade soaps to go with you loofah!