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The Goya Plant: A Complete Guide and Care Tips
Goya, also known as bitter melon, is a popular plant grown in many parts of the world for its medicinal properties and culinary uses.
The plant belongs to the gourd family and is native to Asia.
It has a unique appearance with bumpy green skin, tapered ends, and an elongated shape.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about growing goya plants.
Planting Goya Seeds
Before planting your goya seeds, prepare the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure.
This will provide your plant with essential nutrients needed for optimal growth.
- Sow seeds directly into warm soil in spring or early summer when temperatures reach around 70°F (21°C).
- Plant seeds about an inch deep into well-draining soil that receives full sun exposure.
- Space each seed at least two feet apart to allow enough room for vines to spread out.
Caring for Goya Plants
Growing goya plants require some care and attention throughout their growing season.
Here are some tips:
- Water regularly but do not overwater as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilize every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer such as a 10-10-10 blend during the growing season from spring through fall.
- Provide support structures like trellises or stakes where vines can climb up to prevent them from sprawling all over the ground.
Pest Prevention Methods
Goyas attract several pests that can damage their growth rate if not managed correctly:
- Aphids- These tiny insects can damage your plants by sucking sap from leaves and stems.
Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Spider Mites – Spider mites are another common issue that goya plants encounter.
These pests feed on the sap of leaves, causing them to turn yellow and wither.
You can use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oils to combat spider mites.
- Cucumber Beetles – Cucumber beetles love to feed on young foliage of the goya plant.
They leave behind a trail of slime that leads other pests such as ants onto your plant.
Apply an organic pesticide like pyrethrin-based spray or use row covers in areas where they are prevalent.
Harvesting Goya Plants
Goya plants take about three months after planting before you can harvest their fruits for consumption:
- Harvest when the fruit turns yellow-green and is around four inches long.
- The fruit should be firm but not too hard; if it is too hard, it will taste bitter due to its high alkaloid content.
Cooking with Goya Plants
Goyas are known for their bitter taste, which adds a unique flavor profile when cooked correctly:
- You can stir-fry sliced goya fruits with onion, garlic and soy sauce for a quick side dish.
- Slice them thinly in salads mixed with greens like arugula.
- You might want to blanch them quickly before adding as topping garnish for savoury soups like sinigang.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing goya plants require certain care and attention.
By following the tips outlined in this article, you will be able to produce healthy and delicious fruits.
Additionally, by taking a few pest prevention measures such as using organic pesticide sprays or insecticidal soaps, you can prevent common pests from damaging your plants.
With these steps in mind, you can enjoy fresh goya fruits for various culinary purposes.
