How to Grow Bitter Melon

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Bitter Melon is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Bitter Melon in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the bitter melon page for exact timing.

Varieties

• China Long, Mild, pale, productive (Kitazawa/True Leaf Market)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 100 cm (39 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 2 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 6 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Aphids. In humid regions, Powdery mildew can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Bitter Melon is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant bitter melon where you garden.

See also: Bitter Melon in the plant library →

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