Cucumber care guide
Cucumis sativus
Also known as: Cucumber
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Cucumber
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every day
- Shallow roots dry out fast: as a guide, water thoroughly every day once the topsoil dries, checking morning and evening in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 2 days
- Summer-sown plants are cropping now; the soil dries more slowly, so water about when the topsoil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 5 days
- Generally out of season; seedlings raised indoors get a sparing watering about two to three days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Cucumber
Give it a sunny, airy spot with a net or stakes to climb, as a guide; it wilts in the afternoon sun, so mulch the pot to keep the roots from overheating.
Overwintering Cucumber
Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above
It is generally grown as an annual and finishes with the autumn chill; there is no overwintering, so plant a new seedling around May when temperatures settle.
Fertilizing and repotting Cucumber
Fertilizer
Once fruiting, it feeds heavily: from two to three weeks after planting, liquid feed about weekly or slow-release every two to three weeks is the usual guide, and a shortage shows as curved or tapered fruit.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Cucumber
- Drought or hunger gives curved fruit or fruit that tapers at the tip.
- Powdery mildew coats the leaves in white dust and weakens the plant.
- Fruit left too long grows huge and exhausts the plant, so little follows.
Tips for growing Cucumber
- Pick the fruit daily at about 20 cm to keep the plant going.
- Remove side shoots and female flowers up to the fifth node so the plant puts its energy into growing up.
- Pinch the main vine when it reaches the top of the support, and the side vines will fruit.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
