If the nitrogen is deficient, the plant's leaves will become a pale yellow. Fertilizers and nitrogen-rich organic matter are necessary for a cucumber's growth. FertilizingĬucumbers are heavy feeders and require plenty of nutrients, especially nitrogen, in their soil. Once the fruits begin to ripen, the plant requires less water. Cucumbers require at least one inch (2.5 cm) of water per week in the early stages of growth. However, overhead-watering should be avoided in order to prevent diseases.ĭrip irrigation methods work well otherwise, the plant can be watered by hand. Overly dry conditions increase levels of cucurbitacin in the cucumbers, which will make the fruit bitter to the taste. Be careful not to damage the seedlings' roots in the process.įor best results, cucumber plants should be watered deeply and frequently. Seedlings with one or two true leaves survive the transplant best. Before transplanting, harden the plants outdoors for several days to reduce stress. Temperature should be kept above 70☏ (20☌) during the day and above 60☏ (15☌) at night.Īfter three or four weeks, once the weather is warm enough, the seedlings should be transplanted outdoors. Thin the seedlings to one to two plants per pot as they grow. The best pots are peat pots and other varieties that can be placed into the soil with the plant. Plant two to three seeds per two-inch (5 cm) pot. Growing a cucumber plant indoors may be done to avoid the frost and then later transplanted outdoors. If using a trellis, be sure to position it in the garden before planting the cucumbers to prevent disturbing their roots. Vine varieties of cucumber are often grown on trellises to promote air circulation, provide more direct sunlight, and help the fruits to grow normally. However, in temperate climates, cucumbers should be planted after the last frost to ensure the cold temperatures will not kill or damage the plant. If grown in a warm climate, cucumbers have no specific growing season. To plant in hills, soil should be made into mounds with a distance of at least five feet (1.5 m) in every direction. They may be planted closer together, but will require later thinning to avoid overcrowding. To plant in simple rows, seeds should be planted about one inch (2.5 cm) deep and 10 - 12 inches (25 - 30 cm) apart. Cucumbers can be grown in rows on flat ground or in hills.
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