Bitter Gourd Seeds – Desi Kakarakaya Variety | Karela/Pavakkai | High Germination for Home Gardening
Bitter Gourd Seeds – Desi Kakarakaya Variety | Karela/Pavakkai | High Germination for Home Gardening
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Product Details
Germination Time: 8-12 days
Sunlight Requirement: 6-8 hours per day, full sun
Ideal Climate for Sowing: Warm season crop; best sown in summer and monsoon
Vine Length: Up to 6-8 feet (requires trellis or support)
Organic Fertilizer Requirement: 1-2 cups of decomposed cow dung or vermicompost per plant, every 2-3 weeks
Life Span: Annual, seasonal vine
Ideal Growing Temperature: 24-32°C
First Harvest: 55-65 days after sowing
Maintenance Required: Moderate (needs trellis/support as vine grows)
Ideal Grow Bag Size: 12x12 grow bag or larger, with support structure
Specifications of Desi Bitter Gourd (Kakarakaya) Seeds
This Desi variety produces classic green, ridged bitter gourds widely used in Indian households for stir-fries, stuffed preparations, and traditional remedies. As a vigorous climbing vine, it needs a trellis, fence, or pergola to grow along and support the developing fruit. Valued for its authentic taste and nutritional benefits, this variety is a staple for home gardeners.
Benefits / Uses
Classic green variety, ideal for stir-fries and stuffed preparations
Versatile in the kitchen — curries, pickles, and traditional dishes
Vigorous climber — good for covering trellises, fences, or pergolas
Traditionally valued for its use in home remedies
Continuous harvest over several weeks once vines mature
Planting and Care for Bitter Gourd
Sowing: Sow seeds 1 inch deep in well-drained, fertile soil. Soaking seeds overnight before sowing can improve germination.
Growing: Provide a trellis or vertical support early, as the vine grows quickly and needs guidance. Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Hand-pollination may help improve fruit set if pollinator activity is low.
Harvesting: Harvest fruits while still young and firm, typically 55-65 days after sowing — overripe fruits turn yellow-orange, become soft, and lose their culinary quality, so timely picking is important.
Precautions While Growing Bitter Gourd
Provide sturdy support early, as mature vines and fruit can be heavy
Avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root and vine rot
Watch for fruit flies and vine borers; use organic pest control methods where needed
Harvest fruits promptly at the firm, young stage to maintain the best flavor and texture
Other Names
Botanical Name: Momordica charantia
Uses in Indian Languages:
Telugu: కాకరకాయ (Kakarakaya)
Hindi: करेला (Karela)
Tamil: பாகற்காய் (Pavakkai)
Kannada: ಹಾಗಲಕಾಯಿ (Hagalakayi)
Malayalam: പാവയ്ക്ക (Pavaykka)
Grow Suggestions
Delivery: Free delivery on orders above Rs. 499. All orders are prepaid, so you pay securely online at checkout.
For shipping timelines and return terms, please see our Shipping Policy and Refund Policy.
Are Vanashree seeds suitable for beginners?
Yes. Our seeds are beginner-friendly and ideal for balcony, terrace, and home gardening.
How do I sow these seeds?
Use loose, well-draining soil, sow at the depth recommended for the crop, water gently and keep the pot in suitable light. See the description for details on this product.
Are these seeds suitable for Indian climate conditions?
Our seeds are selected for home gardens across many Indian climates. Check the sowing season listed on this page for the best time to plant.
How should I store seeds before planting?
Store seeds in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and keep the packet sealed after opening.
| Brand | Vanashree Organics |
