Cucumbers in Durham

Sow seeds on their edge to a depth of 1.5 cm in modules from 15th April - 22nd April. Keep them at 21–24 °C on a warm windowsill or in a propagator. Sow no earlier than this to avoid leggy, root-bound seedlings.

Gradually acclimatise seedlings to outdoor conditions over 15 days from 6th May - 20th May. Place them outside in a sheltered spot during the day, bringing them in at night. This toughens them up before transplanting.

Plant out into a warm, sunny bed after the last frost from 20th May - 3rd June. Space plants 45 cm apart on slight mounds to improve drainage. Use cloches or fleece for extra protection if nights are cool.

Allow plants to spread naturally across the ground or over a low frame. Do not pinch out flowers, as outdoor varieties need bee pollination to set fruit. Mulch around plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Water deeply at the base to keep soil moist from 27th May, avoiding wetting the leaves to reduce mildew risk. Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 14 days once flowering begins to support fruit development.

Pick fruits regularly when they reach a usable size from 26th July - 16th October. Cut them from the vine with a knife, harvesting every few days to encourage continuous production. Outdoor varieties may have a shorter season, so pick promptly.