Best Sowing Time (North India): Summer (Feb–May)
Best Sowing Time (South India): All Year (peaks Feb–Apr and Jun–Aug)
Temperature: 25–38°C (warm-season crop — needs heat)
Soil: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with plenty of compost
Sunlight: Full sun (8+ hours)
Watering: Deep and regular; mulch to conserve moisture. Reduce watering as fruits mature.
Spacing: 1–2 metres apart (vines are vigorous)
Germination Time: 5–10 days
Tip: Sow 2–3 seeds per hole, thin to the strongest seedling. Provide a strong trellis or let trail on ground. Feed with compost tea or balanced fertiliser every 2 weeks during fruiting.