Cucumbers growing guide

Introduction

Cucumbers are a refreshing and versatile vegetable, perfect for summer salads, sandwiches, and pickles. Growing cucumbers in the southeast of the UK is straightforward and rewarding, providing a continuous supply of crisp, fresh cucumbers throughout the warmer months.

Why grow cucumbers?

Cucumbers are rich in vitamins K and C, and they are incredibly hydrating due to their high water content. Growing your own cucumbers ensures they are fresh, pesticide-free, and bursting with flavour. Homegrown cucumbers often taste better than store-bought ones and can be harvested at their peak.

Suitability for different growing environments

Cucumbers thrive in warm, sunny spots with well-drained soil. They can be grown in the ground, in raised beds, or in large containers. Cucumbers can be grown vertically using trellises, making them suitable for smaller gardens or allotments.

Lifecycle

Cucumbers are annual plants. They are usually sown in late spring and grow rapidly during the summer, producing fruit continuously if harvested regularly. The plants will start to decline as the weather cools in late summer to early autumn.

Sowing and harvesting periods

  • Sowing: Late spring to early summer (April to June)
  • Harvesting: Summer to early autumn (July to September)

Recommended varieties

Popular cucumber varieties include:

  • ‘Marketmore’
  • ‘Telegraph Improved’
  • ‘Burpless Tasty Green’
  • ‘Crystal Apple’

How to sow

Sow cucumber seeds indoors in pots from April to June. Fill pots with seed compost, sow two seeds per pot, and cover with a thin layer of compost. Keep the pots in a warm, sunny location or a greenhouse. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin to one plant per pot.

How to prick out/pot on

When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots if needed, to ensure they have enough space to grow strong before planting out. This helps establish a robust root system.

Where to plant

Choose a sunny, sheltered spot with fertile, well-drained soil. Cucumbers prefer soil that has been enriched with plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Ensure the site is free from frost, as cucumbers are sensitive to cold.

How many to plant (spacing)

Plant cucumbers 18 inches (45 cm) apart in rows 3 feet (90 cm) apart. If growing vertically, space the plants 12 inches (30 cm) apart along the trellis. This spacing allows for good air circulation and helps prevent disease.

How to plant

Plant out cucumber seedlings after all risk of frost has passed, typically in late May or early June. Dig a hole large enough for the root ball and plant at the same depth as in the pot. Water well and provide support if growing vertically.

Protecting your plants

Young cucumber plants can be vulnerable to slugs and snails. Use organic slug pellets or barriers to protect them. In cooler weather, use cloches or fleece to provide extra warmth. Mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

How to feed and water

Cucumbers need consistent watering, especially during dry spells. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Feed cucumbers every two weeks with a high-potash fertiliser once they start to flower.

How to propagate, prune/manage while growing

Cucumbers are propagated from seeds. Pruning is not usually necessary, but pinching out the growing tips of side shoots can encourage bushier growth and higher yields. Regularly pick the cucumbers to encourage continuous production.

How and when to harvest

Harvest cucumbers when they reach the desired size, typically when they are about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) long, but this can vary depending on the variety. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the cucumbers from the vine, leaving a small stem attached. Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production.

How to store

Cucumbers are best used fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider pickling the cucumbers. Store-bought cucumbers with a wax coating will last longer, but homegrown ones should be consumed more quickly.

How to eat/cook

Cucumbers can be eaten raw in salads, sandwiches, and as a refreshing snack. They can also be pickled or used in cooking. To prepare, simply wash and slice the cucumbers as needed.

How to deal with pests and disease

Common pests include cucumber beetles, aphids, and slugs. Use organic methods to manage these pests, such as introducing beneficial insects and using barriers. Watch for diseases like powdery mildew and downy mildew. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimise the risk of disease.

When and how to remove the plants

Remove cucumber plants once they have stopped producing and start to decline, usually in late summer or early autumn. Pull up the plants, roots and all, and compost them if they are disease-free. Clear the bed to prepare for the next crop.

What to plant before and after

Cucumbers do well following legumes, which fix nitrogen in the soil, or early spring crops like radishes and lettuce. Avoid planting after other cucurbits to reduce the risk of soil-borne diseases. After cucumbers, consider planting autumn crops like spinach, kale, or other leafy greens. These crops will benefit from the residual nutrients left in the soil by the cucumbers.

What to interplant with

Good companion plants for cucumbers include beans, peas, and radishes. These plants can help deter pests and do not compete heavily for resources. Avoid planting cucumbers near aromatic herbs like sage and basil, as they can inhibit cucumber growth.

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