How to Dry Gourds

Dried gourds make perfect decorations for your fall table, or you can use them to make birdhouses or decorative dippers and bowls. Gourds have a variety of uses. Here are a few do it yourself tips on how to dry a gourd.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Flat Hobby Paintbrushes
• Paste Wax
• Gourds
• Liquid Bleach
• Varnish
• Kitchen Strings

1. Harvest ripe gourds at the end of the growing season after the stem has turned brown.
2. Keep a few inches of the stem attached to the gourd when harvesting.
3. Remove excess soil from gourd.
4. Attach a rubber band or string to the stem.
5. Hang the gourd in a dark, well-ventilated area such as a garage or basement.
6. Remove mold as it forms on the skin of the gourd with a 10 percent solution of bleach.
7. Tap the gourd with your hand every month or so. When it is dry to the touch and has a hollow sound, it is ready to use.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint dry gourds with varnish or coat with a layer of paste wax to preserve the finish.
• Gourds will dry in 2 to 4 months, depending on the amount of heat and ventilation available in the drying area.

Who Can Help:

• Find Contractors Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Landscaping Design and Installation Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Lawn Care Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.