If you want to grow cucumbers this summer but have never grown cucumbers before, you may find yourself in a pickle.You can grow cucumbers if you know what variety to buy and how to grow them.Take care of your plants as they grow in the coming months, and plant your cucumber variety in late spring.You'll have a good harvest before you know it.
Step 1: If you want thicker skin, choose Kirby cucumbers.
The skin of the cucumbers can be resistant to the salty brine.After a few days or weeks in a jar, a thick skin can remain on Kirby cucumbers.Cucumbers grow to around 6 inches (15 cm) or smaller.
Step 2: Purchase cucumbers that are resistant to disease.
Most varieties of cucumbers are prone to disease.Their shape is longer than other cucumber varieties, with a slim seed core.Cucumbers produce high yields throughout the season.Although they can grow up to 20 cm, the best time to pickle them is when they reach 5 cm.
Step 3: For a high yield, plant National cucumbers.
This variety has a large and abundant harvest.Cucumbers with a dark green skin are called national cucumbers.The cucumbers grow to around 13 inches.
Step 4: Cucumbers are good for a sweeter taste.
The milder County Fair varieties taste better than the more bitter varieties.These plants are easy to digest and have no seeds.They grow well in home gardens.The best time to harvest cucumbers is between 2 and 3 inches.
Step 5: Cucumbers can be planted in well-draining soil.
The soil in your garden is rich in organic matter.Compost should be added to the area before or after you plant.A layer of compost is added to your soil.Cucumbers need at least 6 to 8 hours of sun a day.Cucumbers do well in hot climates, so you may need to water them more frequently.
Step 6: There is a trellis for your plant.
Cucumber vines need a place to climb to grow vertically.Cucumbers can be planted directly below a trellis.Cucumbers can be trained to grow on the vine.If you have to, you can use twine or straps to secure the vines.Cucumbers grown on a trellis are easier to harvest because they hang closer to eye level and are less caked in dirt.
Step 7: After the last frost date, you can seed or transplant.
Cucumbers are sensitive to the cold.Wait at least 2 weeks after the last frost to plant cucumbers.The seeds should be put into the soil about 2 inches deep for seeds and 2.5 inches for seedlings.Space plants are about 6 inches apart so they have room to grow.
Step 8: Cucumber plants need water at least once a week.
Cucumber plants need at least 1–2 inches of water per week to grow.Depending on your climate, you may need to water more frequently.If the soil is moist, put your finger in it.Water your plants if the soil is dry.Sandy soil requires more frequent watering.When the sun is low, water your plants in the morning or early evening.
Step 9: It's mulch.
It is possible to keep cucumbers cool during the hot summer months.Wait until temperatures reach 70F.The best way to keep pests away is with leaf or pine straw mulch.
Step 10: There are pests and weeds to watch for.
Cucumber pests include Cucumber beetles, pickle worms, and spider mites.Pests can be kept at bay by spraying vegetable-friendly pesticides.If you notice weeds in your garden, uproots them as you see them.A brand certified as non-toxic for vegetable plants can be used if you use pesticides.
Step 11: Cucumbers can be grown in pots.
Cucumber plants can be grown indoors in cold climates.If you want your plant's vines to climb, you have to fill a large, well-draining pot with soil.Remember to water your pot once per week if you place it in a place that gets daily sunlight.
Step 12: There are signs of maturity in cucumbers.
Cucumbers can take up to 60 days to harvest.When your cucumbers reach the recommended size, they will be ready to harvest.Cucumbers are overripe if they are yellow at the bottom.Plants can change over the course of 24 hours.
Step 13: You should wear a thick pair of gardening gloves.
Don't pick cucumbers with your bare hands.Some varieties have smooth vines, but most are prickly.You can find a study pair of gloves.
Step 14: Cut the cucumbers with a knife.
Cucumbers can be pulled off the vine to damage the plant.Use a sharp pair of pruners or a knife to cut the vine above the fruit.
Step 15: Pick every few days.
Some cucumbers won't mature at the same time.Don't pick fruits until you're ready to eat them.Pick your cucumbers in groups.
Step 16: Cucumbers can be stored at room temperature.
Cucumbers are vulnerable to frost damage when they are below 50 F.Cucumbers can be stored in the front of your refrigerator or on your kitchen counter.Cucumbers are available for 1-2 weeks.Pick up some cucumbers before this time.