Growing Lebanese Cucumbers
Preparation
Cucumber plants love full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. For the best results:
- Use well-drained soil enriched with aged compost or manure.
- Weed thoroughly and loosen the soil before planting.
- Keep the area weed-free to give your plants the best start.
How to Sow Cucumber Seeds
Direct Sowing (Recommended):
- Sow seeds 10mm deep and 40cm apart, with rows spaced 120cm apart.
- Keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Seeds germinate in 4-10 days at a soil temperature of 18-35°C.
- Protect young seedlings from pests and harsh weather.
Important: Cucumber is a tender crop sensitive to frost. Wait until all danger of frost has passed before planting seeds or seedlings outdoors.
Caring for Your Cucumber Plants
- Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water deeply when dry, early in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid wetting the leaves to prevent fungal issues.
- Fertilising: Well-prepared soil may not need extra fertiliser, but for a boost:
- Support: Vines can sprawl or climb. For trellis growing, ensure support is in place before planting and tie vines gently as needed.
Harvesting Lebanese Cucumbers
- Time to Harvest: Ready in 60-70 days.
- When to Pick: Harvest when the skin is glossy, and the fruit is firm but young. Older cucumbers can become bitter.
- How to Store: Keep fresh cucumbers in a perforated plastic bag in the fridge. For long-term storage, cucumbers can be pickled.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Aphids: Tiny sap-sucking insects that discolour leaves. Spray with water or apply a soap spray.
- Lack of Fruit: Caused by poor pollination. Hand-pollinate using a paintbrush if needed.
- Powdery Mildew: A fungal issue that appears as white spots on leaves. Ensure good air circulation and water at the soil level.
- Sunscald: Protect fruit by keeping foliage intact or covering plants with light fabric on hot days.
Why Hudstone Seeds?
- High Quality: Reliable germination and excellent yields.
- Eco-Friendly: Perfect for gardens or growing in our reusable cotton calico bags.
- Versatile: Great for salads, snacking, or pickling.
Ready to grow your own cucumbers?
Order your Lebanese Cucumber Seeds today and enjoy fresh, crisp flavours straight from your garden!