Overview
Growing Cucumis sativus at home is a rewarding endeavor that yields new , crisp cucumbersfor salads , sandwiches , and more . With the right knowledge and care , you could delight a bounteous harvest home all time of year long . This comprehensive pathfinder will provide you with step - by - tone pedagogy andessential tipsto master the art ofcucumber cultivationat home .
Choosing the Right Variety
The first stone’s throw is to select the rightcucumber varietyfor your climate andgrowing conditions . There are threemain typesof cucumbers :
Preparing the Soil
Cucumis sativus thrive in well - drained , fertile dirt with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 . Before planting , rectify the grunge with plenty of organic matter , such as compost or manure . This will help toimprove drainage , retain wet , andprovide substantive nutrientsfor the works .
Starting Seeds Indoors
If you live in a neighborhood with ashort grow season , you may want to take off your cuke seeds indoors 4 - 6 weeks before the lastfrost date . Sow the seeds 1/2inch deepin a seed - starting mix and keep them ardent and moist . Once the seedlings have develop their first exercise set of true leave of absence , transplant them into item-by-item pots .
Transplanting Outdoors
When thesoil temperaturehas hit 65 ° F ( 18 ° C ) and all danger of Robert Frost has passed , it is time to transplant thecucumber seedlings outdoors . Choose a sunny location with well - enfeeble dirt . quad the industrial plant 12 - 18 inches apart in row that are 3 - 4 foundation wide .
Providing Support
Cucumber vines can grow up to 10feet long , so it is important to provide them with some type of backup . treillage , cage , or stakes can help to keep the vine off the land andimprove air circulation . This willprevent diseaseand encourage healthy outgrowth .
Watering and Fertilizing
cucumber are cloggy feeders andrequire regular watering , especially during hot , dry atmospheric condition . Water the plants deeply at the groundwork , head off stupefy theleaves wet . Fertilize the plant every few weeks with a balanced plant food .
Pollination
cucumber vine are monecious , entail that they have both manly andfemale flowerson the same plant . However , the manly peak bloom first , so it is crucial toattract pollinatorsto your garden . Plant companion plants such as marigold or zinnia to attract bees and other good insects .
Pest and Disease Control
Cucumbers can be susceptible to a miscellany of pest and diseases , including aphids , cucumber beetle , and powdery mildew . varan yourplants regularlyfor any signs of plague or disease . Useorganic pest ascendance methodswhenever possible , such as insecticidal goop or neem vegetable oil .
Harvesting
Cucumbers are quick to reap when they have accomplish their full sizing and have afirm texture . The skin should beslightly prickly , but not hard . Use a tart knife to cut the cucumber from the vine , leave a brusque root word attached .
Preserving Your Harvest
smart cucumbers can be store in the refrigerator for up to a week . Forlonger storage , you’re able to pickle or can the cucumbers . pickle cucumbers in vinegar andspices createsa tangy and flavorful condiment , while canning cucumbers continue them in a plastered jar for month .
