Cucumber
Cucumis sativus
Cucumbers are a refreshing and versatile vegetable, enjoyed fresh in salads, sandwiches, and pickles. They are typically categorized into outdoor (ridge) varieties, ideal for cooler climates, and greenhouse varieties, which prefer warmer conditions. Modern varieties often thrive in both environments. Gherkins are small, immature cucumbers, perfect for pickling.
Quick Information
Planting Calendar
Growing Guide for
1 Sow seeds indoors
Sow seeds 2.5cm deep in pots or modules indoors.
2 Sow seeds under cover
Sow seeds 2.5cm deep in pots or modules outdoors under cover.
3 Sow seeds outdoors
Sow seeds 2.5cm deep directly outdoors.
4 Harden off seedlings
Gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions.
5 Transplant seedlings
Transplant seedlings outdoors, spacing them 45cm apart for climbing varieties and 90cm apart for sprawling varieties.
6 Train climbing varieties
Train climbing varieties up a cane wigwam, trellis, or framework.
7 Fertilize regularly
Start feeding every fortnight with a general-purpose liquid fertilizer as soon as fruits start to form.
8 Water regularly
Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Do not let cucumbers dry out.
9 Harvest cucumbers
Harvest cucumbers when they are young and tender, before they grow too large. Pick gherkins when they are small.
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