Spiny, seasonal, and packed with goodness, Kantola (also known as spiny gourd) has been a kitchen staple in many Indian households — especially during the rains. You may remember it from your mum’s curry pot, but this thorny green is gaining new life in home gardens across the country.

Kantola is well-suited for warm, humid weather and requires very little intervention once established. With the onset of monsoon providing ideal conditions for germination and growth, now is an excellent time to plant it.

This step-by-step guide outlines everything beginners need to know — from sourcing seeds and preparing soil to supporting the vine and harvesting the fruit.

How to grow kantola in 10 easy steps

1. Source the right seeds

Start by getting quality kantola seeds or tuber roots from a local nursery, agro shop, or reliable online vendor. Look for heirloom or indigenous varieties. Kantola can be grown........

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