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- 1). Leave ornamental gourds on the vine until right before first frost to allow them to start the drying process in the field.
- 2). Harvest your gourd by using a sharp knife to carefully cutting the stem a couple inches above the vegetable without twisting or damaging it. The stem is the exit for the majority of the gourd's moisture and must be cut cleanly from the vine.
- 3). Wash the gourd with a dish soap and warm water solution using a non-abrasive sponge. Scratching the gourds surface may cause discoloration and scarring.
- 4). Hold the gourd on a stable surface with one hand as you twist the tip of your knife into the top neck area of the gourd to create a small hole.
- 5). Insert a wire into the hole created by the tip of the knife and hang your gourd in a dry and well ventilated area. Garage, barn and attic rafters are popular locations but anywhere that gets regular fresh air will work.
- 6). After about four to six weeks your gourd will have completely dried and will be ready for use as a birdhouse. Check for readiness by shaking your gourd and listing for the rattle of dry seeds on the inside.
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