Cucumbers
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Grow cucumber vines vertically, on a frame or trellis, to minimise ground space while getting bumper returns.
Likes: Warm dry conditions, full sun and regular watering.
Dislikes: Cold temperatures, especially cold nights; too much shade and heavy, badly drained soils.
When to plant/sow in zone:
How to start: Plant directly into the soil if warm enough. If nights are still cold, sow into small individual pots. Plant seeds or seedlings in a sunny spot, into mounds of soil 30–50cm apart to ensure good spacing and drainage.
How to grow: Water 2–3 times a week during dry weather. Sprinkle a handful of sulphate of potash just after planting, or when seedlings first appear. Bees are needed for pollinating or hand pollinate using a soft, small paintbrush. Avoid watering the leaves to minimise fungal problems.
When to harvest: Harvest timing depends on the variety but usually when fruits are between 15–20cm long.
Pests and diseases: Aphids, thrips, mites and pumpkin beetles, downy and powdery mildew and other fungal diseases. Also bacterial diseases and viruses like cucumber mosaic virus.
Wondering what to plant when?
Use our planner to create a planting calendar for your climate zone
View Planting Guide
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