Hmmm.. could be those, didn't notice them specifically on these plants but do remember seeing them in the past.

Rima, think about cutting the bottom off a gallon plastic milk jug and using that as a hot cap. The lid should be taken off during the daylight hours. We start bitter melon every year in a heated greenhouse and then the plants are moved to a bed in an unheated hoophouse. Plastic still covers the hoophouse and it gets really warm in there on 75-80 degree days. The covering will come off soon; however, today it still hadn't made it to 50 outdoors by early afternoon. I'm happy that the bitter melon is protected for a few more days and it's happy in there, too. Steve

Rima, Bitter Melon is a tropical plant. It does not like cold weather. While it may not die at 40 degress, it will not be happy at all. If it's going to be cold for a long time, bring it in. Where did you purchase seedlings? Bitter Melon performs best between daytime temperatures of 82ð - 95ðF and night temperatures between 69ð-77ð. It requires more heat than the other gourds to produce maximum yield.. Here is a link that might be useful: How to Transplant with Success

Thanks denninmi for your reponse about plants and seed of bitter melon. Actually there is no shortage of seeds here in the Salem area. I am in the process of working with them, though no success yet. Have not given up on seeds yet. Though in the mean time I thought I would try to look for plants as well. I don't have a great deal of time to work with for the season ahead. Thanks again Janoyan PS. I also would welcome suppliers of plants from other areas of the country, if they can ship promptly and securely to us.