Unlike large plastic loofahs, natural luffas aren’t manmade at all—they’re actually made from dried gourds. That’s also how loofahs got their name; the luffa plant’s insides are called a ...

They nest inside gourds and help keep gardens free of pests. How do you dry gourds? Store ornamental gourds on a screen or vented platform in a dry, dark area for three to six months to dry them ...

Though not edible, most ornamental gourds are part of the Cucurbita family — along with pumpkins, squash and melons. They can be dried, then painted, polished, used in crafts or to create ...