🌱 How to Grow Gongura (Ambadi) from Seeds
Also known as:

• Hindi: अम्बाड़ी (Ambadi)

• Telugu: గోంగూర (Gongura)

• Kannada: ಗಂಗೂರ (Gongura)

• English: Roselle / Gongura

• Botanical Name: Hibiscus sabdariffa

1. 🗓️ Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season leafy vegetable

• Best time to sow: March to June or July to August (start of monsoon)

• Ideal temperature: 25°C to 35°C

2. 🌱 Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam or alluvial soil

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

• Enrich soil with organic compost or well-rotted farmyard manure

3. 🌾 Sowing the Seeds

• Sow seeds directly in the field or nursery beds at 1 inch (2.5 cm) depth

• Spacing: 12–18 inches between plants, 24–30 inches between rows

• Can start in seed trays and transplant after 3-4 weeks

4. 💧 Watering

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

• Water regularly especially during dry spells

• Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds

5. 🌿 Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under warm conditions

• Provide partial shade during early seedling stage if temperatures are very high

6. ☀️ Sunlight & Temperature

• Requires full sun for best leaf production

• Thrives best at 25°C to 35°C

• Tolerates heat and some drought once established

7. 🌼 Fertilization

• Apply organic compost or nitrogen-rich fertilizer at planting

• Side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks for healthy leaf growth

• Avoid excess nitrogen which can cause leggy plants

8. 🛡️ Pest & Disease Control

• Common pests: aphids, jassids, leaf miners

• Common diseases: leaf spot, powdery mildew

• Use neem oil spray or organic insecticides as needed

• Maintain good spacing for airflow and remove infected leaves

9. 🥬 Harvesting

• Leaves can be harvested 30–40 days after sowing

• Regular picking of young leaves encourages fresh growth

• Can harvest multiple times by plucking tender leaves or whole branches

10. 🌱 Regrow Tip

• Collect seeds from mature pods after flowering and drying

• Dry seeds thoroughly before storing in a cool, dry place for next season

🌿 Health Benefits of Gongura (Ambadi)

• Rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidants

• Aids digestion and acts as an appetite stimulant

• Good for cooling the body in hot climates

• Used in traditional dishes for its tangy flavor and health benefits