Abstract: The calabash was planted on 5 different substrates. In the process of growth and development of calabash, the available nutrient, pH and EC of five different culture matrix were measured regularly, then combined with the growth index of calabash, we could choose the most suitable plant medium to provide technical support for the cultivation matrix. The results showed that, for the soil nutrient and other indicators,100% of peat cultivation substrate nitrogen supply ability was strong and durable but the pH was too low, which did not meet the needs of calabash. 100% of alluvial soil substrate had high pH, but poor ability of nitrogen and phosphor supply, not suitable for the growth of calabash as well. The substrate of alluvial soil 40%+peat 20%+vermiculite 40% had better potassium supplying ability, but their ability of supplying nitrogen was poor in the middle and late stage, pH was slightly high, which affects the growth of calabash. Both pH and EC of alluvial soil 40%+peat 60% and alluvial soil 40%+peat 30%+vermiculite 30% substrate is suitable for calabash growth and could provide enough nitrogen, phosphor and potassium to meet the needs of nutrients of calabash’s growth. Judging from the growth index of calabash, the plant height, stem diameter, root length and dry weight of the calabash under alluvial soil 40%+peat 30%+vermiculite 30% were the largest, and it was the best substrate for the growth of calabash.

Key words: green plant, calabash, plant medium