The eighteen-seed gourd should face the pocket. This is because the eighteen seeds are named according to the hexagrams in the Book of Changes, and the hexagrams corresponding to the pocket are separated from the hexagrams, while the top of the gourd can be regarded as the hexagrams. If facing the direction corresponding to the pocket, it belongs to the intersection of separation ridges, which conforms to the design concept of harmony between man and nature.
Please note that these principles are not absolute, and specific decisions may vary according to individual understanding and needs. Besides, this answer is only based on what I know. If you need more professional guidance, I suggest consulting professional gourd lovers or experts in related fields.