Climate and Soil: Bitter melon thrives in warm, tropical or subtropical climates with plenty of sunlight. Choose a location with well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

Planting Instructions: Plant 1 inch deep in soil after danger of frost has passed in Spring and soil temperature is at least 75F, in mostly sunny areas. High temperatures preferred; heat pad recommended for indoor.

Spacing: Space the plants about 3 to 6 feet apart in rows, as bitter melon vines can spread extensively.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the growing season. Provide a deep watering whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

Support: Bitter melon is a climbing vine, so it needs support to grow vertically. You can use trellises, fences, or other structures to guide the vines upwards.

Fertilizing: Add compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting to provide nutrients.

Pruning: Prune the vines to manage their growth and help air circulation. Pinching off the growing tips can help lateral growth.

Harvesting: Bitter melon fruits are typically ready for harvest around 60 to 70 days after planting. Harvest the fruits when they are still green, firm, and slightly tender. Don't let them become overly mature and turn yellow or orange, as they can become overly bitter.

Additional Tips: If you live in a cooler climate, consider growing bitter melon in containers that can be moved indoors during colder months. Bitter melon is a fast-growing plant, so regular observation and care are essential.

TRY PAPER TOWEL METHOD FOR FASTER GERMINATION

Moisten the Paper Towel: Take a paper towel and dampen it with water. It should be moist but not dripping wet.

Place the Seeds: Spread the damp paper towel on a flat surface. Place the bitter melon seeds evenly spaced on one half of the paper towel.

Fold and Enclose: Fold the other half of the paper towel over the seeds to sandwich them between the moist layers.

Seal in a Plastic Bag or Container: Gently slide the folded paper towel with the seeds into a sealable plastic bag or airtight container.

Create a Warm, Bright Location: Place the sealed bag or container in a warm and well-lit area. No direct sunlight, as it can cause the seeds to overheat.

Check and Mist: Check the paper towel every day to ensure that it remains moist. If it starts to dry out, lightly spray it with water using a spray bottle.

Germination: Within a week or two, you should start to see the seeds sprouting and developing tiny roots and shoots.

Transplanting: Once the seeds have sprouted and developed a small root system (usually about 1/2 to 1 inch long), they are ready to be transplanted into soil.

Transplanting into Soil:

1. Prepare Soil: Prepare a container or garden bed with well-draining soil. Bitter melon prefers rich, loamy soil.
2. Plant the Seeds: Create a small hole in the soil using your finger or a stick. Gently place the germinated seed, with the root facing down, into the hole.
3. Cover and Water: Cover the seed with soil and lightly pat it down. Water the soil gently to settle it around the seed.
4. Provide Support: If you're growing bitter melon vertically, set up a trellis or support structure near the plant to guide its climbing growth.

Remember that not all seeds may germinate successfully, so it's a good idea to germinate a few extra seeds to ensure you have enough healthy seedlings. The paper towel method can help you get a head start on germination and increase the chances of successful seedling growth.