On Thu, 23 Oct 2003 15:10:39 -0400, "David D."
wrote:

I have a couple of small, colorful, striped gourds that I purchased at the
supermarket. I use them for still-life arrangements, and I would like to
prevent any mold growth while they are drying.

I have read that they should be kept in a dry, warm area with good air
circulation, and sponged with a dilute bleach solution. But I could find
no details on how dilute, or how often to do this.

What do you suggest? What has worked for you?

- David





I let mine (large gourds) dry in the basement during the dry winter
months. Some collaspe and some rot, but all get a thin mold over the
surface. Hang them to dry without touching each other. Some folks
dry them in the attic, but my basement is drier next to the furnace.
Expect some color loss during the drying process. I wait until they
rattle when shaken, then sponge them off with a household bleach
solution. (1 cup of bleach and a teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to 1
gallon warm water). Check them once a month and throw out the ones
that collapse or become soggy.