Cucumbers

Planting cucumbers

Sow after the last frost when soil is warm, or start indoors 3 to 4 weeks early.

Planting details

• Use a trellis to save space
• Spacing varies by bush or vining habit
• Seed depth: about 1 inch

Growing requirements

Cucumbers need full sun, fertile soil, and regular water. Harvest frequently to keep plants producing.

Harvesting and care

Pick cucumbers young and often, before seeds harden. Daily checks matter at peak season; oversized fruit signals the vine to slow production.

Common mistakes

• Inconsistent watering, which produces bitter or misshapen fruit
• Skipping a trellis for vining types, which wastes space and invites rot
• Harvesting late, which turns skins tough and seeds hard

Companion plants

Dill, beans, and radishes can work nearby, provided vines do not shade shorter crops.