Trailing
Ash gourd is grown trailing on the ground by spreading dried twigs and coconut fronds on the ground.
Manuring
Balanced fertilization is essential for high yield and good keeping quality of the fruits. Apply FYM @ 20-25 t/ha as basal dose along with half dose of N (35 kg) and full dose of P2O5 (25 kg) and K2O (25 kg/ha). The remaining dose of N (35 kg) can be applied in two equal split doses at the time of vining and at the time of full blooming. A fertilizer dose of 70:25:25 kg N:P2O5: K2O / ha in several splits is recommended in Onattukara region. The fertilizer dose per pit would be 28:10:10 g N:P2O5:K2O.
Irrigation
During the initial stages of growth, irrigate the crop at 3-4 days interval, and alternate days during flowering/fruiting. Furrow irrigation is the ideal method of irrigating. But in water limited environment, trickle or drip irrigation can be resorted to. During rainy season, drainage is essential for plant survival and growth.
Pollination
Ash gourd is a cross pollinated crop. Insects, especially bees, pollinate flowers. Pollination can be a problem during the wet season since bees are less active during overcast conditions. Introduction of bee-hives ensures good pollination and avoids the need for hand pollination.
Hormone application
Spraying vines with flowering hormones increases the number of female flowers and can double the number of fruits. For example, one application of gibberellic acid at 25-100 ppm increases female flowers by 50 % and can work for up to 80 days. Application of ethrel (an ethylene releasing compound) has also been found to increase femaleness.
Weed control
Conduct weeding and raking of the soil at the time of fertilizer application. Earthing up is done during rainy season. Hand or hoe weeding can be performed as needed. Mulching is commonly used for ash gourd crop grown on raised beds. Use organic or plastic mulch depending on availability. Mulch can be laid down before or after transplanting and after sowing.