First off, "Good Luck" This is my 2nd season growing bushel gourds so I am no expert either. However this is what I would tell you. Check your last frost date, for me it's April 15th and I direct sow outside ASAP after that day. (sometimes a day or two early) Compost, Aged Manure, and PLENTY of water. I start mine with a standard 10-10-10 until the vines get about 10-12ft long. Then back off and switch to a fertilizer that's less nitrogen and much higher in phosphoric acid and potash.. Nip the end of the vines after they get to the 10-12ft mark.. (or a length that allows for 1-3 gourds to form) Thus forcing the plant to "feed" them rather than feeding several gourd-babies. So in summary I would say. " Compost,Manure, Direct sow, 10-10-10 fertilizer,clip vine at 10-12ft, switch to fertilizer higher in phosphorous and potash. and Water like the dickens ( whatever the dickens are.)

P.S. Watch for pests, Water the plant at soil level not leaves (could cause problems) and possibly attempt to prevent "powdery mildew" (sprays available for cheap)

Again, Good Luck (hope I helped alittle)