Cucumber Care

Cucumber plants spread outwards and have a shallow root system. Cucumbers require steady moisture through out their growing cycle, and especially need an ample amount of water when the fruits are forming. To increase cucumber production work in compost or other natural fertilizer into the soil before planting. Before the the plant begins to flower side dress with a natural fertilizer high in nitrogen. Watch for pests and disease through the cucumber plants life cycle.

Use mulch to warm the soil early in the season to reach the optimal soil temperature quickly and maintain the soil temperature even if there are days when the outside temperature is colder. Mulching also conserves water in the soil from evaporation giving your cucumbers a steady supply of water as the plants grow. Cucumbers prefer to be watered from below with drip irrigation.

Common Cucumber Problems

Many varieties of cucumbers are susceptible to different sorts of diseases, like mildew, leaf spot, and bacterial wilt. There are also a number of pests that attack cucumbers such as the cucumber beetle that affects young cucumber plants, as well as aphids, mites, and certain types of worms. Proper planting techniques, crop rotation, and healthy soil can do much in combating cucumber disease and pests.