Choose a warm, sunny location with well-drained soil
Start seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly after soil warms
Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting
Plant seeds 1 inch deep
Space plants 3 to 6 feet apart
Provide a trellis, fence, or other support for climbing vines
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist
Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Fertilize with compost or a balanced fertilizer during growth
Thin to the strongest seedlings if multiple seeds sprout in one spot
Protect young plants from cold temperatures and frost
Harvest young fruits for eating or leave mature fruits to dry for sponges