I agree with Cimi's reply on cold overnight temps below 50*F. In 2012, I had phenomenal success with ampalaya [bitter melon], which is a tropical gourd. Here is the 2012 picture: scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/564678_475155089162528_213452192_n.jpg Many of the gourds had already been picked, but the wall of leaves indicate the vitality. Here is the 2013 picture: scontent-b-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn1/555013_655489101129125_501538946_n.jpg 2013 spring nights fluctuated with warm and then very cool nights; this was not the case in 2012. In 2014, I will not direct seed, but begin the seeds in the house, transfer them to the enclosed porch, and then plant, as I did in 2012. good luck