Why Plastic Baskets?
Plastic baskets with ventilation holes make the perfect container for bitter melon:
Excellent drainage
Great airflow for healthy roots
Lightweight and reusable
Ideal for small spaces or poor soil
What You’ll Need:
-
Plastic basket (30–40 cm wide) with holes
-
Liner (coconut fiber, landscape fabric, or old cloth)
-
Potting mix + compost
-
Bitter melon seeds or seedlings
-
Organic fertilizer (e.g., compost, vermicompost)
-
Trellis or vertical support
-
Mulch (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Prep the Basket
Line your basket with coconut fiber or fabric to hold in soil while allowing airflow. Drill extra drainage holes if needed.
Mix the Soil
Create a fertile, well-draining mix:
-
60% garden soil or potting mix
-
30% compost or organic matter
-
10% sand or cocopeat
Fill the basket about ¾ full.
Plant the Seeds/Seedling
-
Soak seeds overnight for better germination.
-
Plant 2–3 seeds about ½ inch deep, then thin to the strongest one.
-
Or transplant one healthy seedling into the center.
Add a Trellis
Bitter melon vines grow fast! Use bamboo stakes, mesh, or a vertical frame to support and train the vines upward for better yield and airflow.
Ongoing Care
-
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during flowering and fruiting.
-
Fertilizer: Feed every 2–3 weeks with compost or liquid organic fertilizer.
-
Mulching: Helps retain moisture and reduce weeds.
-
Pest Watch: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage aphids and flies.
-
Pruning: Trim excess growth to focus energy on fruit production.
Harvest Time!
Pick bitter melon while it’s young, green, and firm — usually 2–3 weeks after flowering. Harvest regularly to keep fruits coming!
Why You’ll Love This Method:
Space-saving and ideal for balconies or patios
Breathable baskets promote strong, healthy roots
Low-cost and beginner-friendly
High yield with proper care
Ready to transform a plastic basket into a mini melon farm? Try this method next season and enjoy fresh, homegrown bitter melon right from your own urban garden!
