Cucumber Tasty Green - Renee's Garden

Start Seeds Outdoors Plant heat loving cucumbers in full sun only after spring weather is warm and settled and night temperatures stay above 50F (10C). Amend soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow in groups of 2 to 3 seeds 18 in. apart and 1 in. deep. When the baby seedlings are 2 in. tall, thin out extras, leaving one strong seedling per group. After thinning, put 4-5 ft. strong vertical supports or individual tomato cages around each seedling and train vines up supports as they grow. This approach makes it easier to harvest straight fruits, saves garden space, and helps prevent disease.   

Growing Notes Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Shallow-rooted cucumbers need ample and consistent moisture to produce sweet tasting, nicely formed cucumbers. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruits.

Harvest and Use: Cut rather than pull fruits from vines before seeds are large inside. Harvest every few days for longest fruit production. These juicy tender cucumbers need no peeling. Slice and enjoy for refreshing snacks, in salads and sandwiches. Eat cucumbers within a day or two of picking for best taste and quality.