How to Grow Cucumbers
Did you know that cucumber is the first of the ‘serious’ spring vegetables to come into harvest. For this reason the first produce is hugely anticipated and cucumber always finds a place in our gardens. For other garden vegetables, visit gardeninginfo-online.com.
The plant is a prolific climber and should be incorporated vertically to your garden, saving precious growing space for verieties that need it. In ideal conditions the vine can sprawl widely and fruit grow sizeably, so make sure trellising structure can cope with the workload.
Cucumber is not just a salad fare, it is a popular pickling vegetable and brightens up the tasties summer beverages.
The skin of the cucumber matures and toughens when the cucumber is left on the vine, so it is best to pick the fruit young and have good quality olive oil and a pinch of salt ready!
Once you plant your cucumber you will be able to harvest it within 6-10 weeks. Best planting months differ for each area, so best check with your local Nursery.
You can plant cucumbers in pots, that is 20 cm deep and also just as wide. You need to prepare the soil so it is well drained and moderately fertile. Mix in compost and manure prior to planting. If you have a pH level checker, the best levels are at 6.5-7.0.
Cucumber loves a sunny pot with the ability to climb. You need to plant the seeds at a depth of 2cms and approx 30-50cms apart, water well while the plant is establishing. Because the beginning of spring can have all sorts of strange weather, wait until conditions are consistently warm before sowing as it will not tolerate frost.
Mulch the ground after seedlings have established to lock in moisture and create an even soil temperature. Mulch also prevents the fruit from rotting on the ground if grown at ground level.
A prolific climber, trellising is advantageous to save space. Make sure you are dilligent in attaching sprawling vine to the structure, tying gently with a twine.
When harvesting avoid pulling on the fruit that may dislodge the root of the plant. Twisting works well, but cutting is the best. Picking the fruit will allow the new fruit to come through, so ensure you dont let fruit overstay their welcome on the vine.
