Cucumber

Cucumis sativus

Vegetable

Cucumbers are fast-growing vines that produce prolifically in warm weather. They benefit from trellising to improve airflow, reduce disease, and make harvesting easier.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

High

Soil

Rich, well-draining loam; pH 6.0–7.0

Spacing

12 inches in rows; 36 inches between rows

Days to Maturity

50–70 days from direct sow

Growing Zones

Thrives in USDA Zones 4–11

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

Start Indoors
3–4 weeks before last frost
Transplant
After last frost, soil 60°F+
Direct Sow
1–2 weeks after last frost
Harvest
50–70 days from sowing

Organic Growing Tips

Plant nasturtiums nearby as a trap crop to lure aphids away from cucumbers.
Use yellow sticky traps to monitor and reduce cucumber beetle populations.
Trellis vines vertically to improve air circulation and dramatically reduce powdery mildew.
Water at the base only in the morning to keep foliage dry and prevent fungal disease.

Common Pests

Cucumber Beetle
Squash Vine Borer
Aphids
Powdery Mildew
Downy Mildew

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.