Do You Grow Dishcloths? Luffa Acutangula Gourd

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The gourd Luffa acutangula is easily grown from seed and produces a very satisfactory, sanitary dishcloth. Most seed catalogs list it.

Image Source: Wikipedia.org

Plant the seed of the Luffa vine about the middle of May, or the time you plant your cucumbers should be right.

In the fall the gourds produced on this vine may be cut open lengthwise, the fibrous mass inside taken out, thoroughly washed in hot soapy water to remove pulp and seeds, then dried in sun and there you have the dishcloth ready for use.

These are very durable and easily kept sweet and clean as long as they last. Dirt and grease do not penetrate the fibers as they do in an ordinary cloth, this makes it more desirable for separator and milk utensils.

When saturated with water the Luffa is agreeable to the touch. The smaller ones may be used for bath sponges, those of medium size for dishes, and the largest for “rags” to scrub automobiles. I have heard of people selling the prepared “rags.”

These vines are vigorous growers. One or two vines, if given room, will produce many gourds, which are often a foot or more long.

Let the children have plants of their own. Any child who can handle a small saw or a knife to whittle, can make handles for Luffa dish mops. Our children had lots of fun preparing these mops and giving them away for Christmas presents.

Source: The Farmer’s Wife (May, 1933)

You’ll find tips for growing this plant at groovygreen.com.