Grow More Cucumber
Cucumber Card

Sun: Plant in full sun (6 to 8 hours). Space 12 to 24 inches apart within rows or 1 plant per 3– to 5-gallon container. Plant April through July after any danger of frost has passed.

Soil: Amend with organic matter to create well-drained soil. Avoid planting in unamended sandy or heavy clay soils. If a soil test shows that the pH level is below 6.2, apply lime in early spring and as recommended. If the pH is above 6.2, apply a pH-neutral calcium supplement, such as gypsum. Add 1⁄4 cup gypsum per plant to prevent blossom-end rot. If growing in a container garden, amend each pot with 1⁄4 cup gypsum. For proper drainage, use potting mix and ensure that containers have drainage holes. You could also use self-watering containers.

Water: Keep soil consistently moist, but not saturated. Apply approximately 1 to 2 inches of water each week and more during hot summer days. Keep leaves dry to prevent fungal diseases. Mulch helps retain moisture.

Plant: Direct sow seeds about 1 inch deep. When sprouts are 4 to 5 inches tall, thin plants to 12 inches apart. Plants will not grow well or produce if overcrowded. Transplants are not recommended.

Fertilize: In the absence of a soil test, apply an all-purpose fertilizer (8-8-8 or 10-10-10) at planting and according to label directions. Reapply beside plants, 4 to 6 inches from the stem (side-dress), when vines begin to run.

Insects/Diseases/Weeds: Scout plants frequently for insect and disease damage. Use insecticidal soap (for soft-bodied insects) or Bt dust or spray (for caterpillars, also known as “worms”). Spray fungicide regularly to suppress common fungal diseases. Always follow label instructions. Mulch inhibits weeds and diseases.

Harvest: Harvest at 40 to 50 days. Harvest time varies depending on the variety.

Other: Growing cucumber plants on a trellis uses less garden space, keeps the fruit clean, reduces disease, and makes harvesting easier. Visit www.aces.edu/go/growmore for more information.

 

Learn how to grow the best fruits and vegetables with the Grow More Garden Series at www.aces.edu/go/growmore.

 

Bethany O’Rear, Regional Extension Agent, Home Grounds, Gardens, and Home Pests, Auburn University

New August 2022, Grow More Cucumber, ANR-2876-D

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