Cucumber

Sowing:

Seeds should be planted approx. 1.5cm deep with 2/3 seeds per pot (not modules) about 30/35cm apart.

Sowing ideally occurs between March – April or May if growing outdoors.

The seeds will germinate in around 7-10 days.

Harvesting:

Cucumbers are ready to harvest in 50-70 days or when they are the right size (6-8 inches in length).

Information:

Cucumbers require a very fertile and a well drained soil.

Cucumbers have indoor and outdoor varieties with outdoor varieties being able to withstand cooler temperatures.

In order to germinate, cucumber seeds will require a minimum temperature of 20 degrees. They can be germinated in a propagator or if outside, it is best to wait for warmer weather.

Cucumbers need warmth (minimum 20 degrees) so are ideally grown in a polytunnel or greenhouse and are sensitive to frost. They will need to be grown in full sunlight.

Cucumbers will need a growing support e.g. bamboo canes or a trellis.

The “growth points” will need to be pinched out or cut to control growth and encourage sideshoots.

Cucumber is often pickled which gives it a much longer shelf life.

The most common pests are aphids, cucumber beetles as well as slugs and snails. Using a fleece cover should protect your crop.

Nutritional Information:

Cucumbers are rich in electrolytes and can prevent dehydration due to the water content. Cucumber is a great antioxidant and is extremely low in fat with 100g holding just 15 calories.

Fun Fact:

A raw cucumber is 95% water and the term “cool as a cucumber” arises from the fact that cucumbers can actually cool the temperature of the blood.