Gourds – What inspires me!

Today, let’s talk about gourds! They are easy to grow and fun to decorate!
(First of all, I have to send a special thank you to Linda Ashmore my mentor in gourd decorating!)
Thanks, Linda! 😉

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 1

There are so many sizes and shapes.

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 2

With all the different varieties, gourds can be grown just about anywhere. They do need something sturdy to climb. We use cattle panels attached to T-posts.

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 3

They are truly beautiful plants! I usually purchase my seeds thru Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds.

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 4

Once the gourds are grown and harvested, just toss them in a spot where they can dry. We have an old milk barn on our property and we just pile them on a box in the corner. The better the gourds are ventilated, the quicker they will dry. Once dry, give them a good scrub and it’s time to be creative!
The possibilities are absolutely endless! Below are some of my projects. Just click on the link to see the entire DIY post.

My First Class

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 5

Experiment with Color

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 6

Antique – ing

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 7

Lacing with Beads

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 8

Ombre’ Stripe

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 9

Ghoulish Gourd Gang

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 10

Even Jewelry

Gourds - What inspires me! – photo 11

Check out these Gourd-o-Lanterns by Angie at God’s Growing Garden!

Gourd-o-lantern Babies by Angie Ouellette-Tower for godsgrowinggarden.com photo 005_zpsa1f97c03.jpg

Fun stuff, huh?

As you plan your gardens for Spring, find a spot for gourds! In the meantime, come over to my Stone Cottage! I have plenty. We can make all kinds of crazy things!

😉 -Marci