Round Winter Melon Wax Gourd Seeds – Benincasa hispida | Heirloom, Non-GMO Asian Vegetable for Home Garden

Round Winter Melon Wax Gourd Seeds (Benincasa hispida) – Heirloom, Non-GMO

By Mai’s Family

Grow one of Asia’s most cherished traditional vegetables—Round Winter Melon (Wax Gourd), known scientifically as Benincasa hispida. This large, white-fleshed melon is prized for its mild flavor, natural long-term storage ability, and incredible versatility in cooking. Winter melon is widely used in Asian soups, teas, stews, and low-carb recipes, making it a favorite for both home gardeners and healthy-eating enthusiasts.

This variety produces large fruits 14–22 pounds, covered in a natural waxy coating that allows the melon to stay fresh for months to a year when stored properly. With its ability to grow in warm climates and its excellent shelf life, it is a must-have vegetable for gardeners looking to grow unique, nutrient-rich produce.

⭐ Why Choose Winter Melon Wax Gourd?

• Heirloom, Non-GMO & Open-Pollinated

• Popular in Asian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Indian cooking

• Keto-friendly, low carbohydrate vegetable

• Stores naturally for months thanks to waxy protective coating

• Large high-yield fruits perfect for soups, teas, and stews

• Strong performer in warm climates with long growing seasons

🌱 Growing Information

• Days to Maturity: 85–95 days

• Germination: 10–21 days

• Seed Depth: 1 inch

• Soil: Enriched, well-draining soil (pH 5.5–6.5)

• Light: Full sun

• Temperature: 75–85°F

• Growth Habit: Long vines (up to 12 ft), best grown on the ground

• Spacing: 3–4 ft plants; 5–6 ft rows

Growing Tips

• Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting

• Start indoors and transplant when soil reaches 60°F

• Choose a warm, sunny location

• Water consistently throughout the season

🍈 Harvesting

Harvest when fruits reach full size, stems turn brown, and leaves turn yellow. A white powdery coating is normal and indicates ripeness.

🍲 Culinary Uses

Winter melon is widely used in Asian cuisine and can be prepared in many ways:

• Soups & broths

• Herbal teas

• Stir-fries

• Jam & candied melon

• Pastry fillings

To prepare: cut open the melon, peel the rind, remove seeds, and cube the flesh.

🐛 Pests & Notes

Common pests: aphids, slugs, snails, spider mites, leafhoppers
Diseases: downy mildew, leaf blight, leaf spot