Variety: Marketmore Approx 10 seeds Sowing: Seeds should be planted approx. 1.5cm deep with 2/3 seeds per pot (not modules) about 30/35cm apart. Sowing ideally occurs between March – April or May if growing outdoors. The seeds will germinate in around 7-10 days. Harvesting: Cucumbers are ready to harvest in 50-70 days or when they are the right size (6-8 inches in length). Information: Cucumbers require a very fertile and a well drained soil. Cucumbers have indoor and outdoor varieties with outdoor varieties being able to withstand cooler temperatures. In order to germinate, cucumber seeds will require a minimum temperature of 20 degrees. They can be germinated in a propagator or if outside, it is best to wait for warmer weather. Cucumbers need warmth (minimum 20 degrees) so are ideally grown in a polytunnel or greenhouse and are sensitive to frost. They will need to be grown in full sunlight. Cucumbers will need a growing support e.g. bamboo canes or a trellis. The “growth points” will need to be pinched out or cut to control growth and encourage sideshoots. Cucumber is often pickled which gives it a much longer shelf life. The most common pests are aphids, cucumber beetles as well as slugs and snails. Using a fleece cover should protect your crop. Nutritional Information: Cucumbers are rich in electrolytes and can prevent dehydration due to the water content. Cucumber is a great antioxidant and is extremely low in fat with 100g holding just 15 calories. Fun Fact: A raw cucumber is 95% water and the term “cool as a cucumber” arises from the fact that cucumbers can actually cool the temperature of the blood.
