After the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F (16°C).
In Zones 8+, you can direct sow or transplant in spring and again in late summer for a fall crop.
Where to Plant:
Choose a sunny location with well-draining, fertile soil.
Ideal for garden beds or large containers with a trellis or fence for support.
How to Plant:
If planting Sow Exotic’s 1-gallon coconut coir pot, you can plant it directly in the ground or in a larger container—just make sure the top rim of the pot is below the soil surface.
Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
If growing from seed, sow seeds ½ inch deep and thin seedlings to 18-24 inches apart once they sprout.
☀️ Light
Sun Exposure:
Full sun (6-8+ hours of direct sunlight per day) is essential for vigorous growth and high yields.
💧 Watering
Water Needs:
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Water deeply at least once a week, more often in hot weather.
Mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
🌿 Support
Trellis & Climbing:
Caigua is a vigorous climber! Provide a strong trellis, fence, or arbor for it to climb.
The vines can reach 10-15 feet (or more) in length, so make sure the support is sturdy.
🌱 Soil & Fertilizer
Soil Type:
Well-draining, rich loamy soil.
pH between 6.0 and 6.8 is ideal.
Fertilizing:
Amend the soil with compost before planting.
Use an organic all-purpose fertilizer (balanced N-P-K) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season for the best results.
Avoid excessive nitrogen as it can lead to lots of leaves and fewer fruits.
🐝 Pollination
Flowering & Pollination:
Produces small, pale yellow-green flowers.
Self-pollinating but benefits from pollinators like bees for better fruit set.
Hand-pollination is optional but can increase yields, especially in areas with fewer pollinators.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Temperature:
Warm-season crop that thrives in 65-85°F (18-29°C).
Sensitive to frost—plant after the last frost date and harvest before the first frost.
Humidity:
Moderate to high humidity is fine as long as there’s good airflow to prevent disease.
🥒 Harvesting
Time Until Harvest:
60-75 days from transplanting.
When to Harvest:
Pick young, tender fruits when they are 3-5 inches long for the best flavor and texture.
Harvest regularly to encourage more fruit production.
Older fruits can become fibrous and are best used for stuffing if they’re still tender enough to eat.
How to Harvest:
Snip fruits off with clean garden scissors or twist them gently from the vine.
🌱 Pruning & Maintenance
Pruning:
Light pruning can help manage vine size and improve airflow.
Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to reduce disease risk.
🐛 Pests & Diseases
Common Pests:
Aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles (use neem oil or insecticidal soap if needed).
Diseases:
Powdery mildew can occur in humid conditions—ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Rotate crops each year to prevent soil-borne diseases.
Culinary Uses
Raw:
Add thinly sliced young fruits to salads for a refreshing crunch.
Cooked:
Stir-fry, steam, or sauté.
Hollow fruits are perfect for stuffing with grains, cheese, or meats—similar to bell peppers.
Pickled:
Pickle young fruits for a tangy snack or condiment.
Fun Facts
Caigua has been cultivated since Incan times for its nutritional value.
Traditionally used in Andean folk medicine for its supposed cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.
Both fruits and young shoots are edible, making it a zero-waste crop!
