To prevent mold, supports are used to suspend the fruit and mounds of grass or straw are placed beneath the gourd where it contacts the earth. Sometimes green, sometimes white or mottled, the gourds vary in shape and size, according to their variety. They can also be shaped by wrapping or tying them with cord, while they are maturing. Soft and sometimes hairy, the immature fruit becomes smooth as it matures. A sunny site on the leeward side, below the 1500 foot elevation, is the best growing place for ipu , although adequate rainfall or irrigation, good drainage and shelter from the wind are all necessary ingredients for fruitful growth.
Less water is needed in the last few months of growth.
A loamy, sandy soil with crushed lava is best, and of course, lots of room for the spreading vines. To produce the most gourds from each plant, the central vine is cut off at 8-10 feet or earlier, to stimulate extending branches with more female blossoms. Decorating techniques can begin while the fruit is green. Incised designs will remain and will be darker after drying. The gourd is harvested when the stem is dry, by cutting several inches of stem with a sharp implement.