Harvest them in September after a light frost, but before a hard frost damages the fruit.

Leave a 2-3 inch stem and be very careful not to damage the skin in any way.

Carefully wash them in a mild solution of bleach [2] to remove not only dirt but also any disease causing organisms.

Store the gourds in a warm dry location where they will receive no light, but will receive ample air circulation. It is preferable to keep them elevated, such as on an old window screen.

Every day turn and shake each gourd so that they are dry evenly and the seeds become loose inside.

If any mold appears on the skin, it is important to wipe it off right away in order to prevent rot and deterioration.

When they are completely dry-in 6 to 8 months- and the seeds rattle, you can drill an entrance hole [3] for the bird or decoratively carve the gourd.