· learn the difference between gourds, squash, and pumpkins, explore unique types like bottle, snake, and luffa gourds , and get expert tips for growing, harvesting, and curing your own gourds at home. Ornamental gourds – grown for decoration and crafts. · learn about the different types of gourds, their uses, and how to grow them in your garden. Edible gourds – grown for their taste and nutrition. · gourds generally fall into three broad categories: · colorful gourds dont need to be limited to autumn displays. This list of gourds and squashes provides an alphabetical list of (mostly edible) varieties (cultivars) of the plant genus cucurbita, commonly called gourds , squashes, pumpkins and zucchinis /courgettes. Utilitarian gourds – hard-shelled types used to make containers, tools, and musical instruments. Learn about 15 different types of gourds you can turn into useful items and decor for your home. From edible pumpkins and squashes to decorative calabash and loofah gourds, discover the diversity and versatility of this plant family.