Bitter Gourd illustration

Growing Bitter Gourd in Zone 3b

Zone 3b has harsh winters and a short growing season. Start Bitter Gourd early indoors to maximize your harvest window. Last frost: May 15. First frost: Sep 22.

Planting Calendar

Indoor
Outdoor
Harvest
Apr 17Sep 22

Season: May 15 – Sep 22 (130 days)

Zone3b
Last FrostMay 15
First FrostSep 22
Season Length130 days
Days to Harvest55
SunFull Sun
Frost ToleranceNone
Spacing2/sqft (6-8" apart)

When to Plant Bitter Gourd in Zone 3b

Start Seeds Indoors: Apr 17

Start Bitter Gourd seeds indoors around Apr 17 (4 weeks before last frost). Optimal germination temperature: 85°F. Germinates in 7–14 days.

Transplant Outdoors: May 29

Transplant Bitter Gourd seedlings outdoors after May 29. Wait until soil temperature reaches 65°F. Space plants at 2/sqft (6-8" apart). Harden off plants for a week before moving outside.

Harvest: Aug 27

First harvest approximately Aug 27 (~90 days from transplant). Continue harvesting until first frost (Sep 22).

Plan Your Bitter Gourd Garden

Track Bitter Gourd from seed to harvest with personalized frost dates, watering recommendations, and companion planting visualization.

Start Free Bitter Gourd Growing Guide