These pretty late season heirlooms are beloved for their apple shape and dappled green skin that ages to brown. Apple gourds are popular with crafty types who transform these hard-shelled beauties into birdhouses, bowls, and storage vessels. 20 seeds minimum Germination: 7-28 days Maturity: 110-120 days Scarify seeds with file and soak in lukewarm water for 24 hours before planting. Build hills with 5 of surrounding space in full sun. Direct sow seeds -1 deep after last frost or start indoors 5-8 weeks before last frost date. Space 24-36 apart.