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Apple Gourd, Indian Round Gourd, Indian Baby Pumpkin, or better known as Tinda in South Asian context, is a member of the Praecitrullus genus. Rich in antioxidants, full of anti-inflammatory properties and other long-term health benefits, the Indian Round gourd is a super food, which is highly recommended to be made part of one's diet.Usually light green in color and spherical in shape, apple gourd is also a great source of Vitamin A. A popular summer vegetable with 94% water content, it can be cooked in various ways without worrying about the calorie intake. Mild and soothing to the digestive system, this squash-like and water-rich gourd can either be cooked in a curry or stuffed with spices to make an authentic gourmet dish.PLANTING INSTRUCTIONSSoak the seeds overnight before planting.The tender seeds should be implanted in one foot (30 cm) ridges, spaced 4-6 feet (1.25-2 m) apart. Seeds can also be planted in rows that are twelve inches (30 cm) apart.The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks depending on the temperature.Thin the seedlings when they have 3-4 leaves. Doing this will let the 3 best ones on the vine.You may also plant the vines where they can climb onto a strong trails or allow your vines to grow along the ground.GROWING REQUIREMENTSWATERINGAfter the seedlings germinate, they can be watered only once a week. The vine thrives in warm and dry weather.PESTSbeetles, fruit flies white flies While fungicides and insecticides can be used, some gardeners prefer using fish meal traps and other organic methods to control pests.PESTSThe crop is prone to attack by these pests --Alternaria leaf blight -Cercospora leaf spot -Powdery mildew Some pest symptoms include yellow-brown spots with a yellow or green halo on the old leaves; small spots with light to tan brown centers; white spots on the undersides of leaves.SOILWell drained fertile soil with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic material.SPOTFor optimum growth, choose a spot that receives full sunTEMPERATUREPlant in the spring to early summer. The ground temperature needs to be at least 25°C for the seeds to sprout. Develop best in warm, sunny weather of tropical or sub-tropical climates, likes 25–30°C (77-86 F) at daytime and 18°C (65 F) or more during the night.TEMPERATURESpring till early summer, is the ideal time to plant apple gourd. The ground temperature needs to be at least 25°C for the seeds to sprout. Develops best in warm, sunny weather of tropical or subtropical climates, likes 25–30°C (77-86 F) at daytime and 18°C (65 F) or more during the night.WATERINGAs the seedlings germinate, they should be watered once a week as the vines thrive well in warm and dry weatherHOW TO HARVESTRinse the seeds off and post them in a warm, dry area to dry entirely. It will require several weeks to fully dry the seeds. Do not rush this part of the procedure, as it is the most significant measure for proper conservation. Dry the gourd fruits naturally by placing in an area with good air circulation. Bringing the gourds indoors may help them dry faster.Store all the seeds in breathable containers (preferably not plastic).Growing many types of gourds or squash in close propinquity to each other will affect your seeds by creating cross-pollinated gourds.The second storage option is refrigeration.