Saving seed from your crop won't likely yield the same type of gourds you had this season, since cross-pollination will usually occur between plants. The hard-shell types may benefit from some hand pollination. Beehives near the field can also help with pollination. Gourds need a long growing season to mature before frost. Don't plant seeds or transplant outside until the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.
Gardeners can start plants indoors in containers four to five weeks earlier to extend the season.
Always select a well-drained site in full sun with a soil pH above 6.0 for growing gourds. If the soil pH is below 6.0, lime according to soil test recommendations three months before planting. Gourds generally require about the same fertility as cucumbers and watermelons. Apply phosphorous, potassium and minor nutrients by soil test recommendations. Mix the fertilizer into the soil.