Choose a warm, sunny location with well-draining soil
Start seeds indoors 2 to 4 weeks before the last frost or sow outdoors after all frost risk has passed
Soak seeds in water for a few hours before planting if desired
Plant seeds 1 inch deep
Space seeds or seedlings 3 to 5 feet apart
Keep soil consistently moist until germination
Maintain soil temperature above 70°F for best germination
Thin to the strongest seedlings after sprouting
Water deeply and regularly, especially during flowering and fruit development
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
Feed with a balanced fertilizer early, then switch to lower-nitrogen fertilizer when vines start spreading
Hand-pollinate flowers if pollinators are scarce
Support developing fruit with straw, cardboard, or a small board to keep it off the soil
Harvest when the tendril nearest the fruit dries and the underside turns creamy yellow
Cut fruit from the vine with a sharp knife or pruners