Properly planted mirliton sprout. Wait until fruit sprouts (imported mirlitons purchased from store will not grow in our climate, so obtain only Louisiana heirloom mirliton seed through www.mirliton.org). Once sprout is about three inches (or cut long sprout back to first node), plant sprouting end down in high-quality potting mix. Water well and leave 1/2 to 1/3 for fruit above ground to discourage fungus on fruit. Place indoors in room temperature until above ground sprout appears, then place in partial to full sun or a sunny window for the winter.
Wire guard to protect from rodents. They normally won't eat the seed once the stem emerges. See more at www.mirliton.org
Shade netting for when I am gone for several days.
Covered Plant for rodent protection. Once they sprout, usually they will leave them alone.