Gourds are a type of fruit. They are in the pumpkin family and grow as a flower and then fruit from growing vines. They don’t like to grow on the ground like pumpkins. Gourds like strong support like a trees, trellis, or fence. The plant produces oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. When the gourds are harvested and the plant has died, the decaying plant matter is great for nourishing the soil. Gourds are grown around the world for practical and decorative uses. Gourds are used for all sorts of items such as drinking vessels, food storage, decorative baskets and musical instruments. Gourds have played an important role in human progress.

These particular gourds are very small, grown for more decorative uses rather than carrying life-sustaining food and water. However, they still share a history, beauty and function. These ornaments may be decorated very differently but they all speak to the fact that there was a natural, beneficial, living plant cycle that took its course to create it. Covered in paper, painted, gilded, and wired these gourd ornaments are definitely a great way to “go green” for the holiday season. Give it as a gift or hang it with care. Enjoy!