Many types of cucumbers, either for pickling or slicing, have gained popularity in home gardens over the years. The main consideration for cucumbers is real estate, as they require substantial amounts of space to thrive. Those working in smaller spaces should consider training vines onto vertical structures to increase the growing surface of the garden. They can also be grown in containers, a good option for residential farmers The cucumber ranges in size from the small gherkin type to the long, thin, slicing variety. There are also yellow and fruited varieties. A gardener has a great number of options when selecting what type of cucumbers to include in the vegetable patch.
Cucumbers are a subtropical crop, requiring long warm days, plenty of sunshine and balmy nights. Many new cultivars have been bred to produce shorter growing seasons, making them ideal for cooler climates. Cucumbers thrive best at relatively high temperatures, 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit being the ideal temperature range. The plants will die in frost conditions. Since it can grow quickly, it must be well supplied with moisture and plant nutrient elements throughout the growing season.
Cucumbers can flourish successfully in many types of soils. The preferred soil is loose, sufficiently drained and adequately supplied with organic matter and plant nutrients. Work in organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost before planting. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Lime and fertilizers are best applied using soil test results as a guide. Over-fertilization interferes with the production of the fruit.