Grow Kiwano Horned Fruit: A Guide to Cultivating and Enjoying This Unique Fruit
Have you ever heard of the kiwano horned fruit? Perhaps not, as this fruit is still relatively unknown to many people. However, it is becoming increasingly popular due to its unique appearance and taste. In this article, we will explore how to grow kiwano horned fruit and share some delicious ways to enjoy it. Let's dive in!
What is Kiwano Horned Fruit?
Kiwano horned fruit, also known as African horned cucumber, jelly melon, or hedged gourd, is a fruit that originates from Africa. It belongs to the cucumber and melon family and has a spiky exterior that resembles a horned cucumber.
The fruit is oval-shaped, with an orange-yellowish skin that is covered in thorns. The inside of the fruit is filled with a green jelly-like pulp that contains numerous small seeds. The taste of the flesh is similar to a combination of cucumber, kiwi, and banana, making it a unique and flavorful fruit.
How to Grow Kiwano Horned Fruit?
If you want to experience the joy of growing your own kiwano horned fruit, here are some basic steps to get started:
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Kiwano horned fruit thrives in warm and sunny climates, so make sure to choose a location where it can get plenty of sunlight throughout the day. The fruit also needs well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Step 2: Start with Seeds or Seedlings
You can start growing kiwano horned fruit by planting seeds directly into the ground or starting with seedlings. If you are starting with seeds, plant them ½ inch deep and keep the soil evenly moist until they germinate. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out, leaving the strongest ones to grow.
If you prefer to start with seedlings, buy them from a reputable nursery or garden center. Transplant the seedlings into the ground once they have grown to a height of 4 to 6 inches.
Step 3: Provide Adequate Water and Fertilizer
Kiwano horned fruit requires consistent watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure to water the plants deeply at least once a week, and more often during periods of drought.
You can also fertilize the plants every two weeks using a balanced fertilizer. This will provide the necessary nutrients for the plants to grow healthy and produce high-quality fruit.
Step 4: Harvest the Fruit
Kiwano horned fruit typically ripens 70 to 90 days after planting. You can tell when the fruit is ripe by its bright orange color and the slight softening of the spikes on the skin. To harvest the fruit, simply twist it off the vine, or use a pair of scissors to cut it off.
Ways to Enjoy Kiwano Horned Fruit
Now that you know how to grow kiwano horned fruit, let's talk about some delicious ways to enjoy it:
1. Fresh Fruit Salad
Kiwano horned fruit pairs well with other tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, and pineapple. Simply cut the fruit in half and scoop out the jelly-like pulp with a spoon. Combine it with other fruits, and enjoy a refreshing and nutritious salad.
2. Smoothies and Juice
Add kiwano horned fruit to your favorite smoothie recipe or blend it with other fruits to create a tasty and healthy juice. You can also freeze the pulp to use later in smoothies or cocktails.
3. Salsa
Dice kiwano horned fruit and mix it with chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeno peppers, and cilantro to create a refreshing and spicy salsa. Serve it with tortilla chips, tacos, or grilled chicken.
4. Desserts
Kiwano horned fruit can also be used in desserts such as pies, tarts, and sorbets. Its sweet and tangy flavor adds a unique twist to traditional desserts.
There you have it - a guide to growing and enjoying kiwano horned fruit. Whether you are looking to add a unique fruit to your garden or want to try something new in your kitchen, kiwano horned fruit is definitely worth a try. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!
horned cucumber, African horned cucumber, jelly melon, hedged gourd
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