Chinese pomegranate fruit momordica how to grow

Momordica, although it belongs to exotic plants, has long managed to fall in love with many flower growers in our country. Some appreciate it for its decorative appearance, others like its fruits, and still others grow it as a medicinal culture. Momordica is popularly known as Indian Cucumber, Mad Cucumber and Chinese Melon. It grows well both in open ground and in greenhouses, on balconies, in a room on a windowsill. Growing and caring is not particularly difficult, and even a beginner can cope with this.

Momordica

What is Momordica

Momordica is a herbaceous vine belonging to the pumpkin family. Among the 20 species known today, there are both perennial and annual varieties of this plant. In culture, as a rule, only two species are grown - charantia (Momordica charantia) and Cochin (Momordica cochinchinensis). Wild vines are most common in the tropical forests of India, southern China, the Caribbean. Several types of Momordica grow on the Crimean Peninsula. In lianas, fruits, seeds, young shoots and leaves are edible, in addition, all parts of the plant have medicinal properties.

Momordica (Latin Momordica)

Description of the plant

The shoots of Momordica are very thin, rather strong, from 2 to 4 m long, the carved leaves have a rich green color. The plant has dioecious five-petal flowers: the male flowers are large, bright yellow in color, with high pedicels, and the female flowers are smaller in size and have a short stalk. The male flowers bloom first and give off a very pleasant strong scent similar to the scent of jasmine. Before the fruit ripens, the plant is covered with stinging hairs, like nettle, but then the hairs completely disappear.

Momordica charantia

The ovaries are formed almost immediately after pollination. The fruits vaguely resemble overgrown cucumbers with warty skin. Their length can vary between 10-25 cm, and a diameter of about 7 cm. As they ripen, the color of the fruit changes from bright green to yellow-orange. During this period, the plant looks very decorative and unusual, especially when planting near a hedge. Ripe fruits burst at the bottom and become like large, loose flowers with three petals twisted upward. Up to 30 dark-colored seeds in a strong shell, similar to pomegranate seeds, fall out of them. The pulp of the fruit is very juicy, dark red in color, with a pleasant taste and slight bitterness.

Momordiki's name comes from the Latin word for "bite"

The chemical composition of the fruit

Protein	0.84 g
Carbohydrates	4.32 g
Alimentary fiber	2
Beta carotene	68 mcg
Lutein	1323 μg
Folic acid	51 μg
Ascorbic acid	33 mg
Calcium	9 mg
Potassium	319 mg
Iron	0.38 mg
Magnesium	16 mg
Zinc	0.77 mg
Phosphorus	36 mg

Growing Momordica

Growing Momordica

Liana propagates by seeds and cuttings. The first method is used much more often, since it guarantees high germination and does not require much effort. But the survival rate of cuttings is not too high, and it is not always possible to get a strong plant from them. In temperate climates outdoors, Momordica is grown only through seedlings, since the plant is thermophilic, and with late sowing, it does not have time to bear fruit. In indoor conditions, artificial pollination is required for liana to harvest.

Landing

Ripe Momordica Seeds

Step 1... Seeds are prepared for planting. To begin with, only dark-colored seeds are selected, since light ones are considered insufficiently ripe. For disinfection, the seed is immersed for half an hour in a weak solution of potassium permanganate at room temperature. Next, a teaspoon of natural honey is diluted in a glass of warm water and a linen napkin is moistened in this solution. Seeds are wrapped in a napkin and placed in a warm place, for example, near a battery. It is impossible to wrap them up with foil, this contributes to the rotting of seeds, it is better to moisten the napkin as it dries. Germination usually takes about 2 weeks.

Sprouted Momordica Seeds

Video - How to germinate momordica seeds

Step 2. For planting seeds, take peat cups, fill them with soil mixture from garden soil and humus (ratio 1: 3). The soil substrate must be warmed up in the oven for an hour, because it can contain pest larvae and harmful spores.

Soil mixtures for growing momordica

Step 3. The seeds that have hatched are placed on the edge and lightly pressed into the soil by 1-2 cm, sprinkled with calcined sand, watered. The cups are placed in transparent bags or covered with cut plastic bottles to ensure optimal moisture conditions for the seedlings. The room temperature should be at least 20 degrees. Seedlings appear in about two weeks.

Planting momordica seeds in peat pots

Seedling care

When the sprouts appear above the surface, the cover is removed from the pots, the soil is moistened with a spray bottle and the plants are placed on a light windowsill on the east or west side. Be sure to shade the seedlings from direct sunlight. After the first true leaves appear, momordica needs to be fed with a weak solution of superphosphate and potassium sulfate. It is not recommended to use nitrogen fertilizers during this period.

Seedlings of Momordica

Momordica seedling care

The temperature in the room can be reduced to 16-18 degrees, this is quite enough for normal development. Provide seedlings with light on cloudy days and protection from drafts. 2 weeks after the first feeding, add organic matter to the soil, after another 2 - mineral fertilizers. Watering should be moderate, but regular, so that the substrate in the cups does not dry out. On warm days, the seedlings are taken out into the open air for hardening.

Momordica sprout

After the seedlings grow up to 25 cm, they need to be transplanted either into a larger pot, or into a greenhouse, if the threat of frost has not yet passed. You need to plant directly in the cups, since the momordica root system does not respond well to transplantation.

Momordica - mad melon

Landing in open ground

Momordica - a place to grow

For vines, you should choose a well-lit dry place with loose, permeable soil. Damp areas of momordica are not suitable, as the roots of the plant quickly rot if excessive moisture is present. Fertilized loams with neutral acidity are best suited.Before planting, a mullein or urea solution is introduced into the soil, dug up or loosened. The vine should be planted in late May or early June.

When planting, the root collar should not be too deep, otherwise the plant will develop poorly. The minimum distance between seedlings is about 80 cm. The planted plants are watered abundantly and in the first days they are slightly shaded from the bright sun.

Momordica care

Plant care

Immediately after planting, install reliable supports near the seedlings along which the vine will trail. You can immediately plant seedlings near trellises or by a fence. As soon as the root system adapts, the plant will actively build up its green mass. Thickening negatively affects the formation of fruits, and therefore, if you want to get a good harvest, you should regularly cut off all excess.

Support for momordica creepers

Absolutely all lateral shoots are cut from the ground to a height of up to half a meter from the main stem. After the appearance of the first ovaries, the crown is thinned out, the thickest lashes are removed, the central stem is pinched at a height of 1.2 m.During pruning, do not forget about protective gloves, otherwise the skin on the hands will turn red and itch, as with a nettle burn.

Flowering momordica

Momordica - growing

In hot weather, daily watering is necessary. They take the water that is settled and warm, in a volume of 10 liters for each bush. Watering is best in the evenings, and in the morning, slightly loosen the soil at the roots. Very often, when watering, the roots are exposed, which leads to their drying out and damage. To protect the root system, you need to periodically add fresh soil, but not too thickly.

Momordica is fed with complex fertilizers containing potassium, calcium and nitrogen. A good effect is given by a mixture of cow manure with poultry droppings in a 1: 2 ratio. A liter of the mixture is diluted in 10 liters of water and poured under the bush. The frequency of dressing is once every 3 weeks.

Diseases and pests in Momordica are the same as in other pumpkin crops: bacteriosis, powdery mildew, gray rot, aphids. Affected plants are powdered with wood ash, sprayed with colloidal sulfur (40 g per bucket of water) or a weak infusion of mullein. In advanced cases, copper oxychloride and other chemicals are used.

Advice! It is recommended to pick the fruits slightly unripe, while bitterness has not yet accumulated in the pulp. It is necessary to determine by color: the peel has already completely turned yellow, but has not yet acquired a bright orange tint. This usually occurs 10 days after the appearance of the ovaries. The collected "cucumbers" are laid out for ripening in a cool, bright room.

Momordica in the garden - photo

Propagation by cuttings

Propagation by cuttings is most often used if momordica is grown indoors. The optimal time for this is mid-April.

Step 1... The healthiest and strongest shoots are selected and cuttings up to 12 cm long are cut from them, leaving 3-4 internodes. The lower cut is made at an angle to the kidney, the upper one is straight.

Step 2. A teaspoon of honey is dissolved in a glass of water and the cuttings are soaked for a day.

Step 3. Peat and sifted river sand are mixed in a 1: 1 ratio, poured into a small container, and well moistened.

Step 4. The lower ends of the cuttings are deepened into the substrate, the container is covered with a bag. Periodically, the substrate must be moistened and the temperature maintained within 20-22 degrees.

Momordica stalk

Step 5. After the roots appear on the cuts, the cuttings are planted in open ground or a greenhouse, watered and covered with a cut plastic bottle for several days, until the leaves begin to form.

Harvesting a plant for medicinal purposes

For medicinal purposes, parts of the plant are harvested at different times. The leaves are cut in May, during the formation of the bush, the seeds are harvested in the summer months, when the fruits open, the rhizome is dug in October. Be sure to dry in the air, under a canopy to avoid direct exposure to rays.The fruits can also be dried by cutting into small wedges. Dried raw materials are stored in bags made of paper or thick fabric, as well as in glassware with a tightly screwed lid. As a rule, the aboveground parts of the plant do not lose their beneficial properties for 1-2 years, roots - up to 3 years, fruits - from 3 to 4 years.

Sliced ​​Momordica Fruit

Application of Momordica

Most gardeners plant this amazing vine near gazebos, arches, fences to decorate the site. Its carved foliage and bright unusual fruits attract attention from afar, giving the landscape a certain zest.

Fruits, seeds, leaves and young shoots are widely used in cooking. They are added to salads, first courses, salted, pickled, fried, eaten raw and boiled. The bitterness, which is felt in ripe fruits, does not interfere with enjoying the taste, moreover, it is almost invisible during heat treatment.

Momordica snack

Momordica in cooking

Even more widely, momordica is used in medicine. The active substances contained in the plant normalize the production of insulin, accelerate metabolism, have a sedative and antispasmodic effect. In folk medicine, tinctures from various parts of the vine are used to relieve inflammation, as an antiemetic, and also as an immunomodulator. Fresh pounded greens are applied to wounds and abscesses, and expectorant infusions are prepared from the roots for bronchitis.

Using Momordica

It is important! Despite the many useful properties, not everyone can use momordica. The juice of unripe fruits contains toxins, and there are also hazardous substances in the seed skins. That is why it is forbidden to use any parts of the plant for children, as well as for pregnant and lactating women. If you eat a lot of seeds, it can cause severe poisoning and fever, and in some cases even coma. In addition, in some people, eating the pulp of the fruit causes intestinal upset and allergies, as a result of individual intolerance to certain components.

To avoid such troubles, you need to taste exotic fruits carefully, in small pieces. If there are no negative reactions, you can eat the plant without fear, but, of course, within reasonable limits.

Video - Momordika: description

Vertical gardening of the site allows you to disguise the ugly corners of the garden, and the main helpers in this are vines. Among plants of this type, Momordica stands out favorably, the cultivation of which is no more difficult than growing cucumbers. An exotic guest is still rarely found in gardens, but some summer residents have already appreciated its high decorative qualities and the unusual taste of healthy fruits. We will tell you about growing momordica by seedling, cuttings, as well as caring for a tropical guest.

Momordica charantia

Description and varieties

Momordica is included in the Pumpkin family, the genus contains about 20 species of tropical herbaceous vines. Popularly nicknamed it yellow cucumber, mad melon or Indian pomegranate. The birthplace of Momordika is India and Southeast Asia, where fruits and leaves are used in folk medicine, and traditional dishes are prepared from them.

Two representatives of the genus are grown as vegetable and ornamental crops:

• momordica harantia;
• momordika kokhinkhinskaya.

In our gardens, the first variety is more common - charantia. It forms long and slender shoots, reaching lengths of over two meters. Simple stems have a pentahedral cross-section, equipped with antennae. The shape of the leaf blades is reniform or round. The leaf is deeply dissected into 5-9 lobes. The leaves reach a length of 10 cm and a width of 12 cm, are arranged on the stem in the next order.

Momordika Kokhinhinskaya

Simple yellow flowers, reminiscent of cucumber, are located in the axils of the leaves. They sit on long pedicels, appear during active growth of lashes. Flowers are divided into male and female.During flowering, the garden is filled with a delicate fragrance similar to that of jasmine. Momordica is pollinated by insects.

Advice

When grown indoors, artificial pollination will be required to form fruit.

Elongated green fruits grow up to 15-40 cm in length and 5-8 cm in width. The surface of the skin is covered with tubercles and papillae, reminiscent of the skin of a crocodile. Vegetables are fusiform, cylindrical, or oval.

As it ripens, the color of the crop changes to yellow-orange. When fully ripe, the fruit bursts from below, opening into three pointed fleshy lobes. Orange flesh and large ruby ​​seeds are exposed.

Growing Momordica seedlings

It is quite simple to settle a tropical liana on your plot or balcony. Growing a crop from seeds will not cause difficulties even for beginners in gardening.

The timing of sowing seeds for seedlings depends on the region where Momordica is grown and the further conditions for its growth. She begins to bear fruit after 60 days from the first shoots. The seedling period lasts half of this period - 30 days. Momordica seeds for seedlings are sown in March.

Proper seed preparation is the key to fast growth and healthy seedlings. The seed coat of Momordica reliably protects the embryo; it is not easy to achieve germination without preliminary preparation.

Before sowing, the seeds need preparation, which includes the following steps.

1. Scarification. The procedure serves to break the integrity of the seed coat and stimulate germination. Rub the seeds gently with sandpaper.
2. Disinfection. Protects seedlings from fungal infection. Processing is carried out by soaking in a pink solution of potassium permanganate for 20 minutes or fungicide (according to the instructions). After soaking, the seed is washed in clean water.
3. Soaking in a growth promoter. Accelerate the process of awakening the seed and the emergence of sprouts. Usually a solution of potassium humate is used.
4. Germination. After performing the described manipulations, place the momordica seeds in a damp cloth and keep in a warm place at a temperature above 25 ° C. The sprouts will appear in 2 weeks.

Advice

Choose only ripe seeds that are reddish brown in color.

Like other members of the Pumpkin family, Momordica prefers organic-rich, loose and nutritious substrates. For growing seedlings, a soil mixture based on humus, garden soil, sand and peat is suitable. The components must be taken in equal proportions, after steaming the garden soil.

Since Momordica has an underdeveloped rod-type root system, cultivation is carried out in individual containers to exclude the picking process. It is advisable to select peat pots or cups with a volume of about 300 ml (diameter - 9-10 cm).

Sowing Momordica seeds for seedlings is performed according to the following instructions.

1. Fill the peat glasses with soil mixture, not reaching the edge of 2 cm.
2. Make a 2 cm deep hole in the center of each pot.
3. Place the sprouted seeds with an edge, cover the hole with soil.
4. Gently pour the container, cover with foil or glass and install it in the warmest place of the apartment. The optimum temperature for keeping is 22-26 ° C.

Seedlings will appear only after 1-2 weeks, the first watering after sowing is carried out in 2-3 days. Before the appearance of seedlings, the shelter is daily wiped from condensate droplets, the soil is kept moist.

Momordica seedlings during cultivation are protected from drafts and waterlogging. The temperature background for the harmonious development of seedlings should be at least 25 ° C.

Advice

Do not place pots close to glass. Leaves from contact with a cold surface will lose their decorative effect, they can get sick with a fungus.

Keep the soil well moistened, but avoid stagnant water after watering. Water the momordica only with warm, settled water. Seedling care necessarily includes double feeding.Alternate the full mineral complex and organic matter (humates).

Disembarkation to a permanent place

The readiness of Momordika seedlings for planting is indicated by the development of a bush to a height of 25 cm. It will reach such dimensions a month later from full shoots.

Transplanting Momordica into open ground is possible only after the return frost has receded. The air should warm up to 20-22 ° C, and the soil at a depth of 10 cm - up to + 15 ° C. In Central Russia, the event is held in the third decade of May. For Siberia and the Urals, the landing dates are shifted to June 5–10. In case of sudden bad weather, it is better to protect delicate seedlings with a temporary shelter. Momordica can be transplanted into a greenhouse 2 weeks earlier.

The plot for growing Momordica is selected even and sunny, with a slight shade in the midday heat. Low-lying areas are not suitable for cultivation. If you are going to plant a vine there, take care of good drainage, plant it on a "pillow" 30-40 cm high.

Momordica seedlings develop well on light loams enriched with organic matter. The area where potatoes, legumes, tomatoes, siderates used to grow is best suited.

10-14 days before planting, the site for growing Momordica should be prepared:

1. dig up the soil;
2. remove rhizomes of perennial weeds;
3. add humus or compost at the rate of 3-5 kg ​​per square meter;
4. add 20-30 g of potassium chloride, superphosphate and ammonium nitrate per square meter;
5. while re-digging, add lime or dolomite flour and some sand to improve breathability.

The grown bushes are transplanted together with peat glasses into holes of such depth that the container will fully fit. Momordica is removed from plastic cups very carefully, trying not to violate the integrity of the earthen coma. Install the root system in the hole, add soil. After compaction, pour gently. When planting, observe the distance between the bushes 0.6-1 m.

Caring for momordica in the garden

Taking care of momordica in the garden is very simple: the same agricultural rules apply to it as for growing other members of the pumpkin family.

• Support installation

To ensure the harmonious development of Momordica, immediately after planting, install a support next to the bushes. It is best to use a vertical trellis for growing, in which the lower crossbar is located at a height of 80-90 cm.

Advice

The support will not only protect the fragile stems of Momordica from fracture, but also provide uniform illumination of the bush and ventilation. This will serve as protection against fungal diseases.

• Bush formation

To secure a good harvest, during the cultivation, the Momordica bush is formed. Thickening will have a bad effect on the quality of the crop, therefore 2-3 stems are left, and the remaining lashes are removed. Ensure good ventilation of the root zone by removing all leaves and stepchildren to a height of 50 cm.

Do this after the appearance of the first ovary. This period is associated with the protective mechanism of Momordica - all aerial parts of the bush are covered with small stinging hairs. During the first thinning, you should protect the skin from contact with stems and leaves, otherwise you will get a burn, like from nettles. By the time of fruiting, the protection "turns off", the hairs fall off.

• Irrigation mode, top dressing

Like cucumbers, momordica is very fond of abundant watering. In the heat, irrigation is carried out daily, pouring a bucket of water under each bush. Rely on weather conditions, water the plantings as the topsoil dries.

During cultivation, a full mineral complex or mullein infusion is introduced every two weeks. It is advisable to alternate organics and minerals. Momordica and folk recipes that are applicable to cucumbers are suitable - watering with serum, garden infusion.

• Artificial pollination

In the open field, you will not have problems with fruiting momordica, but when growing in a greenhouse or on a balcony, you will have to work hard, turning into a bee.Arm yourself with a cotton swab or soft brush and gently transfer the pollen from the male flowers to the pistil of the female flowers.

Advice

Artificial pollination is best done in the early morning, at which time the viability of the pollen is at its maximum.

Disease and pest control

While growing a crop, you can face some problems. Momordica is threatened by the same diseases as its pumpkin relatives:

• bacteriosis;
• powdery mildew;
• septoria.

From lovers of juicy greenery, aphids can encroach on the bush. Fungal infections are treated by adjusting the irrigation schedule. After removing the affected parts, the momordica should be treated with a fungicide solution. You can get rid of aphids with the help of an infusion of garlic or a systemic insecticide. The first option is preferable if you are growing a crop for harvesting fruits.

Harvesting and storage of crops, useful qualities of fruits

Harvesting begins 8-10 days after the formation of the ovary. Momordica tastes like a cross between persimmon and pumpkin. The pulp of the green "cucumber" is devoid of bitterness, crunches appetizingly. Unripe fruits are eaten fresh, pickled, used to prepare snacks.

The bright yellow Momordica fruit is bitter, but the bitterness can be removed by soaking in salted water. The fruits are boiled or stewed. The bright pericarp of seeds is also eaten, after ripening it becomes sweet. In addition, Momordica flowers, leaves and stems are also eaten. They are suitable for preparing vitamin salads or dressing green soups. Vegetables are kept in the refrigerator for about three weeks.

Momordica is incredibly helpful! It helps to produce insulin, lower blood sugar levels, and eliminate plaque cholesterol. The substances contained in the vegetable stimulate the digestive tract. Scientists claim that the juice of this exotic is capable of suppressing cancer cells and even treating HIV. Momordica is rich in iron, potassium, "vitamins of youth", calcium, beta-carotene.

Reproduction of Momordica by cuttings

Momordica propagates quite easily by cuttings. Cuttings can be harvested throughout the growing season. For cultivation, the top of the lash with a length of at least 10 cm is rooted in water or a peat-sand mixture.

Cuttings are covered with cut plastic bottles before root formation to maintain high humidity and temperatures of at least 23-25 ​​° C. After the formation of the root lobe, the cutting is planted in open ground. To speed up adaptation for the first time after disembarkation, they maintain a shelter.

Having become acquainted with momordica, you will probably want to grow such an unusual and useful decoration for your garden. A spectacular representative of the flora will delight you with abundant fruiting, if you take proper care of it and pay due attention to growing seedlings.

In our country, momordica is considered exotic, although it appears on garden plots more and more often. Our gardeners are showing more and more interest in it, and everyone has their own interest: someone likes its decorative effect, someone appreciates the delicious fruits, and someone sees only a medicinal plant in Momordica. As soon as they call momordika - Indian cucumber, mad pumpkin, Chinese melon, Indian pomegranate, balsamic pear, etc. In the article we will tell you about growing Momordica from seeds, when to plant, how to propagate and give recommendations for care.

It is said that ordinary inhabitants of Ancient China were forbidden to eat this plant, only the emperor and members of the imperial family had such a right. Hindus worship momordica as the plant of the gods, the Japanese call it the plant of long-livers. In Russia, this balsamic pear can be found on the shelves of Korean stores.

Although Russian gardeners prefer to grow this exotic plant themselves in their gardens, considering this activity interesting and informative.There are two main varieties of Momordica grown in our gardens and orchards: Indian pomegranate, or Momordica harantia, and Momordica balsamic or balsamic pear.

Momordica fruits are very similar to warty cucumbers, changing color from green to yellow-orange depending on the degree of ripeness.

What is Momordica

Momordica is a climbing plant in the form of a herbaceous vine, belonging to the pumpkin family. Today it is known about twenty of its species, among them there are both perennials and one-year-olds. This vine with thin and strong shoots can reach a length of four meters. Beautiful deep green leaves are carved and quite large in size. The flowers are large, with five petals, bright yellow, the male flowers have a high peduncle, the smaller female flowers have a shorter peduncle.

The bloom of Momordica begins with masculine flowers and is accompanied by a strong pleasant scent, very similar to that of jasmine. The stinging hairs, which have a nettle effect, will persist on the plant until the fruits ripen, then they will disappear, completing their guarding mission.

Momordica fruits are similar to overgrown cucumbers, which have a warty, pimply skin. These cucumbers are from 10 to 25 cm long, up to 7-8 cm in diameter.As the fruit ripens, its color changes - from bright green to yellow-orange, at the same time, the fruit cracks from below, dividing into three parts, the "petals" are wrapped outward, and the fruit looks like a fabulous flower. This suggests that momordica is fully ripe. The seeds fall out of the fruit. There are quite a few of them, up to thirty pieces, they look like pomegranate seeds. The fruit itself is very juicy, has a pleasant taste and a light piquant bitterness.

Tip # 1. To avoid bitterness in the fruits, you need to have time to collect them no later than the tenth day after the ovary.

When the Momordika fruit is ripe, it will open and release the seeds into the wild.

Nutrition and Healing of Momordica

Everything from roots to fruits is nutritious and healing in Momordica. Fresh young shoots and leaves are used to make salad and vinaigrette, they are used to make delicious borscht and healing soups. The table below shows which chemical elements Momordica is rich in:

Name	Quantity in 100 g
Protein	0.84 g
Carbohydrates	4.32 g
Alimentary fiber	2
Beta carotene	68 mcg
Lutein	1323 μg
Folic acid	51 mg
Ascorbic acid	33 mg
Calcium	9 mg
Potassium	319 mg
Iron	0.38 mg
Magnesium	16 mg
Zinc	0.77 mg
Phosphorus	36 mg

With the help of this plant, you can cure cough, bronchitis, pneumonia, relieve headaches. Momordica is very useful in the treatment of diabetes mellitus, it will help to defeat various viruses and even a tumor, and increase immunity. The healing properties of Momordica can be listed for a very long time, there is no area where it would not be useful.

How to grow momordica seedlings

Momordica grows both in the greenhouse and in the open field, and even on the balcony or on the windowsill in the apartment. Growing an Indian cucumber will not be difficult, even a beginner in the gardening business can easily cope with this. Since momordica is a thermophilic plant, it is better to grow it through seedlings:

1. The second half of April is the time of sowing Momordica seedlings. Before planting, the seeds must be disinfected in a weak solution of manganese for 20-30 minutes.
2. For better germination, it is better to file the hard shell of seeds slightly using a nail file and being careful not to damage the nucleolus. Read also the article: → "How to choose the right seeds."

   This is what Momordica seeds look like before planting.

3. Spread the seeds in a damp gauze folded in several layers, put a plate of gauze in a warm and bright place, remembering to keep the gauze wet.
4. After a couple of weeks, the seeds will take root.They should be seated in separate containers, for this, plastic cups, cut-off juice bags, and best of all peat pots (like all pumpkin pots, Momordica have sensitive roots, so it is better to plant it in the ground right in a peat cup) are suitable for this.
5. Seedling containers must be filled with the following composition: one half - garden soil, good humus, peat; the second half is sand.
6. Place the sprouted seed on the edge in a container, deepening it a couple of centimeters, sprinkle with soil and water. You can stretch the film over the containers for speedy germination. After the emergence of shoots, remove the film, put the containers with seedlings in a cooler and well-lit place.Read also the article: → "Timing of sowing seeds for seedlings."
7. Seedlings should be fed weekly (superphosphate and potassium sulfate - a weak solution). Fertilizers for indoor flowers are also suitable. Nitrogen fertilizing is not worth doing yet.
8. Disembarkation takes place in the third decade of May, when stable warm weather sets in. At this time, the momordica sprout should reach a height of a quarter of a meter. If the weather has not yet settled and there is a possibility of frost, then the seedlings are transplanted in large containers and placed in a greenhouse.

Momordica seedlings ready to be transplanted into the ground

Growing in a greenhouse or on a balcony

In principle, she can stay there for the entire summer season; a heat-loving plant will only be grateful for such care. Then you should take care of the trellis in order to neatly tie up the main stems of the vines, the lighter branches will catch the antennae on the support on their own. To grow momordica in a greenhouse, on a balcony or on a windowsill, you need to monitor the lateral processes and cut them off in time, otherwise a large thickening of the crown will occur, and the fruits will be very small.

By the way, in such conditions, there may be a problem with pollination, because in the apartment there are practically no insects necessary for pollination of flowers. Therefore, you need to help the plant, with the help of a brush or cotton swab, transfer pollen from a male flower to a female one. On open ground, this operation is not necessary, since the pollinating insects clearly know their job.

Tip # 2. To grow momordica on a windowsill, it is imperative to install a trellis along which it will curl.

Outdoor cultivation

There is nothing difficult in caring for momordika. The main thing is that the conditions of her residence are similar to the nature of her native places, that is, that it is warm (at least 20-22 ° C), light (lack of lighting entails problems with the ovary of fruits, and if they are set, they can suddenly fall), humid and without sudden temperature changes.

Despite the fact that momordica loves moisture, it does not tolerate stagnant water in the soil, since delicate roots can rot very quickly, so good drainage is so important when planting, and when growing, regular watering a little. The best place to plant Momordica is a fertilized loam with almost zero acidity. At the time of preparation for planting the vines, you need to dig or loosen the soil together with a solution of mullein or urea.

In order for the plant to develop well and correctly, the root collar should not be too deep when planting. Seedlings should be planted no closer than 0.8 m from each other. After planting, you need to water the planted seedlings abundantly, shade slightly for the first few days from bright sunlight.

Pruning, tying plants and watering

After transplanting into open ground, it is imperative to install strong trellises next to the plantings, unless the momordica is planted next to a fence or veranda along which it can curl. The growth of green mass in a plant occurs with great activity, too much thickening does not allow the fruits to form correctly and in a timely manner.

Tip # 3.To get a good harvest of tasty and healing fruits, timely pruning of all excess should be carried out.

The main stem at a height of up to 0.5 m from the root must be absolutely free of foliage and shoots. After the first ovaries have formed, you need to thin out the crown by pinching the main stem at a distance of 1.2-1.3 m from the ground. During this procedure, you need to use gloves so as not to get burns from stinging hairs.

Liana in your garden (Momordica)

When it's hot outside, momordica needs to be watered daily, but not with ice water from the tap, but heated in the sun, about a bucket for each plant. It is best to do this in the evening, and in the morning to loosen the soil. Often, the roots are exposed when a jet of water hits, and they can be damaged or dry out, which will negatively affect the general condition of the plant. This can be corrected by periodically adding fresh soil under the plant.

Momordika feeding rules

To feed Momordica, complex fertilizers with potassium, calcium and nitrogen are used.

1. First feeding. As soon as the momordica bloomed, it was time for feeding: ammophoska - a tablespoon, water - a ten-liter bucket. Dissolve and pour over.
2. Second feeding. After the end of flowering, when the first fruits appear: slurry - a glass, nitrophoska - two tablespoons. Dissolve everything in a ten-liter bucket of water and pour at the rate of half a bucket per square of soil.
3. Third feeding. Three weeks before final harvest. Any complex fertilizer. Read also the article: → "Foliar feeding of plants."

Momordica diseases and treatments

Since momordica belongs to the pumpkin family, they are not only similar in care and cultivation, but also have the same diseases. Just like cucumbers or pumpkins, momordica suffers from bacteriosis, powdery mildew, gray rot, and aphids. If the disease turns out to be neglected, you need to use copper oxychloride or other chemicals. A diseased plant can be "treated":

Method of "treatment"	How to treat	Dosage
Pollination	Wood ash	100-150 grams
Spraying	Colloidal sulfur	40 grams in 10 liters of water
Spraying	Mullein	Weak infusion

Answers to frequently asked questions about momordica

Question number 1. When are Momordika fruits considered edible?

At the maximum on the tenth day after the fruits have appeared, they must be plucked. During this period, they have not yet begun to taste bitter. The more often you collect the fruits, the more they appear. And if a lot of ripe fruits remain on the plant for a long time, then this leads to the weakening of the plant.

Question number 2. After which crops can momordica be planted?

Momordica loves to grow on soil after potatoes, legumes, tomatoes.

Question number 3. Can Momordica be propagated by cuttings?

Yes, you can. So momordica is propagated more often when grown in an apartment. Step-by-step reproduction scheme by cuttings:

1. From the healthiest and strongest shoots, cut cuttings of 10-12 cm with three to four internodes. The cut from the bottom is made at an acute angle to the kidney, the cut from the top is straight.
2. Soak the cuttings for 24 hours in honey water (1 tsp in a glass of water).
3. Make a soil from peat and sifted river sand (1: 1 ratio), pour it into a container and moisten well.
4. Stick in the handle with the lower end, pull a bag over the container or put a bottle without a bottom. Monitor soil moisture and air temperature, it should not be lower than 22 ° C.
5. After the roots have appeared, plant the stalk in a permanent place, water and cover with a plastic bottle with a cut bottom until the leaves appear.
6. Cover the stalk with a bottomless bottle or jar to create a greenhouse effect.

Question number 4. Can Momordica be grown in winter?

In winter, Momordica is grown only in an apartment, on a windowsill or on an insulated balcony. During this period, feeding and pruning is required.

Ripe Momordica fruits are edible

The most common mistakes gardeners make when growing Momordica

Although Momordica does not require close attention to itself, some basic rules in the cultivation of Momordica cannot be ignored, the violation of which leads to crop failure or the death of the plant.

Mistake # 1. Landing in cold ground

Some gardeners are in a hurry to plant Momordica in the ground. Since this is a thermophilic plant, especially since it has such delicate roots, it is necessary to plant momordica in the soil no earlier than the apple trees bloom, that is, the threat of frost will pass and the soil will warm up well. Otherwise, in cold soil, the roots will simply rot.

Mistake # 2. Lack of lighting and power

If momordica lacks sunlight or nutrients in the soil, the fruit will be very small. Care should be taken to ensure that momordica grows in a well-lit place and feed her in a timely manner.

Mistake number 3. Excess soil moisture

Momordica does not tolerate stagnant water in the soil; it immediately reacts by rotting the roots. There should be good drainage at the planting site, and watering should be moderate, as needed. On hot days, you should water more, as it does not treat well the drying out of the soil.

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Coming to the market or supermarket, looking at the fruit and vegetable colors, each of us probably thinks about what generous gifts the pantry of nature keeps in itself. Not all of them grow in our country. Some are unknown to us until a certain time, but, as medical studies show, almost every fruit or vegetable brings invaluable benefits to our body. For example, do you know what amazing properties the Indian pomegranate, momordica, has ?! However, this fruit has many names. Someone calls it a yellow cucumber, someone Chinese melon.

Meet Momordica

The fruit, which has so many different names, actually belongs to the Pumpkin family and is a distant relative of the squash we are used to. The fact that in ancient times in China only members of the imperial family could eat it can speak of its value. And in India it was considered a plant of the Gods. Ancient Asians (namely, Asia is considered the birthplace of this fruit) deservedly appreciated its beneficial properties. It does not interfere with getting to know them and us. So what is this fruit - momordica?

Name secrets

An interesting plant that is actively cultivated today in India, the Caribbean, in China is a climbing annual. Some of its species can be found in the Crimea. Of course, many of us want to know what momordica is, how to use it. Aren't you interested in the mysterious name? In fact, it goes back to the Latin verb translated as "bite." But this is not due to the way the fruit is consumed, but to its appearance. The fact is that the leaves of the plant resemble animal bites in their shape.

Momordica's appearance

The Indian pomegranate looks more like an elongated pumpkin or an oblong cucumber. At first, the fruits are green, but as they ripen, they acquire a yellow, and then a rich orange color. They are all covered with warts. A ripe plant tends to split at the bottom, exposing small growths in which the seeds are located. Momordica can also be recognized by its pleasant aroma during flowering. Its yellow flowers exude a scent similar to blooming jasmine.

The chemical composition of the fetus

This tropical plant, which has stepped into our latitudes, is not for nothing considered such a useful and unique fruit. After all, Momordica stores a truly treasure trove of the substances we need. Moreover, not only its fruits are valued, but also all other parts of the plant: root, stem, leaves. What is Momordica so rich in? The beneficial properties of the plant are explained by its composition.

• The red shell of the fruit, which encloses the seed, contains a carotene-rich oil.Everyone knows that this substance in our body turns into vitamin A, the benefits of which hardly anyone would argue.
• The seeds of the plant are also rich in lycopene. It is the most powerful antioxidant that exists today. Moreover, it can enter our body only with food.
• Laboratory studies have proven the presence of triterpene saponins in Momordica root. And these substances are simply irreplaceable in the treatment of rheumatism.
• And, of course, one cannot help but remember the phytoncides that kill numerous viruses and bacteria.
• And take a harantine that lowers blood sugar? It turns out that the fruit is a natural medicine, the use of which is very useful for those who suffer from type II diabetes.

Momordica: how to use?

Unfortunately, this fruit cannot boast of its pleasant taste. It is quite bitter, so it is more commonly used in pharmacology than in cooking. However, it can be eaten as well. This plant is often used in Asian cuisine.

How to eat momordica? It all depends on what exactly you decide to use.

The pulp is recommended to be used unripe, then it tastes like a cucumber. But when the fruit is ripe, it becomes soft, but bitter. To make the taste more neutral, the pulp is often boiled in salted water. And then momordica can be added to legumes as a spice.

The situation is different with the seeds of the plant. They are sweet but rather tough. True, if they are subjected to heat treatment, the seeds will become softer. Most often they are fried. In Asian cuisine, it is an indispensable ingredient for all kinds of salads and stews.

However, not only seeds and fruits are given to people by Momordica. How to use its leaves? Young, fresh shoots are a great addition to vinaigrette. They can also serve as the basis for healing soups and delicious borscht. This fruit has a high nutritional value. But on top of that, momordica is a low-calorie product. Its 100 grams contains no more than 20 kilocalories. After all, it practically (85%) consists of water.

The value of momordica in the treatment of various diseases

It is clear that a plant with such a composition rich in useful substances can be of great benefit.

• Thanks to the carotene that momordica contains, the use of this fruit helps to boost immunity and restore sharp eyesight.
• Substances that have been found in the sap of this plant can stop the growth of cancer cells. This product is especially effective for pancreatic cancer.
• Momordica root is actively used in bronchitis as an expectorant.
• Plant seeds can significantly lower cholesterol levels. In addition, they serve as an excellent prophylactic agent for heart disease.
• Momordica leaf extract is able to destroy not only common staphylococci, but even HIV.

The list of diseases in which this fetus helps is quite extensive. This is why momordica is so prized. You can check the beneficial properties of this plant for yourself. But first, it is better to consult a doctor.

Contraindications for use

Even if you know firsthand how momordica is useful, how to use this plant, do not forget that in some cases it is better to refuse to use it. For example, during pregnancy or lactation. After all, this is an exotic vegetable and it is not known how it might affect your child. In addition, its use is not recommended for those who have an individual intolerance to this fruit.

Momordica in traditional medicine

The tropical guest has long been widely used not only in pharmacology. She also found her fans among those who prefer traditional medicine recipes.

• Do you have stomach or intestinal problems? In this case, Momordica seeds will help you. They are consumed raw.Half an hour before meals, chew 3 seeds, eating them with a spoonful of honey. It is advisable to do this 3 times (before main meals). You need to be treated within 9 days.
• But for healing from flu or colds, a tincture of momordica is used. Making it as easy as shelling pears. Fill a three-liter jar tightly with fruits, which must first be cleaned of seeds. Add half a liter of vodka to the container, close the lid and leave to infuse in a dark place for a couple of weeks. It is better to drink a healing potion on an empty stomach, about half an hour before meals (1 teaspoon each). This should be done within 3 days.
• A decoction from the seeds of this plant is also appreciated. Grind about 20 pieces and pour boiling water over. Keep the mixture on low heat for 10 minutes. Let it brew and strain. You need to consume a quarter of a glass at least 3-4 times a day. This remedy helps with fever and hemorrhoids. It can also be used as a diuretic.

Growing Momordica

Despite the fact that this is an overseas vegetable, some amateur gardeners manage to grow it in our latitudes. True, only 2 types are suitable for this - "Indian pomegranate" and "balsamic pear".

If you decide that this miracle fruit should settle in your country house, try to get some dark-colored seeds. It is they who are considered ripe, and, therefore, you do not have to worry about germination. You can sow momordica either in March or April. They are usually transplanted into open ground in May, but only if the thermometer already confidently shows +25 degrees. After all, momordica comes from the tropics, which means it is a thermophilic plant. Momordica rises approximately on the 10-15th day. But the fruits ripen fully only by the end of August.

Do not forget that this plant is quite picky, so you can get a good harvest only if it is grown on fertile soil. Therefore, it is a good idea to use organic fertilizers. It is especially effective to introduce them for digging the soil.

Mineral dressings also give good results. Feel free to please the plant with superphosphate, ammonium nitrate, potassium chloride.

Also, remember that momordica is a vine. Hence, she needs support. For this purpose, you can use a trellis. The plant will be well lit and will yield a rich harvest. When momordica lacks food or light, the ovary crumbles. But even if the fruits can be preserved, they will be small.

Often this plant is grown as an indoor crop (on a balcony or windowsill). Do not forget to take care of it, and it will delight you with a rich harvest.

An amazing and healthy fruit - momordica. People who have already encountered it will confirm its healing qualities.