How to Grow Cucumbers and Cucumber Cultivation Methods

When planting cucumbers, depending on the variety, sow the seeds at a depth of 2.5 cm and approximately 35 cm apart. Moisten the soil before sowing and cover the seeds with 2-3 cm of soil (refer to the seed packet for specific details). Cucumber plants are highly sensitive to cold due to their preference for warm climates. They can be easily damaged by sub-zero temperatures. For optimal germination, soil temperature should be around 11-18°C. As the temperature rises, the germination rate also increases correspondingly.

To achieve the best yield in cucumber cultivation, it is essential to wait until the cold spells of early spring have passed. There are some differences between greenhouse cucumber cultivation and field cucumber cultivation methods.

GREENHOUSE CUCUMBER CULTIVATION AND FIELD CUCUMBER CULTIVATION

There are differences between growing cucumbers in the field and greenhouse cucumber cultivation. These differences can be summarized as follows:
Key Differences Between Field and Greenhouse Cucumber Cultivation

How is Climate Control Managed in Cucumber Cultivation?

A greenhouse provides a more isolated environment from external weather conditions. Therefore, when growing cucumbers in a greenhouse, you have more stable climate control.
A greenhouse protects plants from external factors such as cold air, wind, and rain, encouraging plant growth. However, in field cucumber cultivation, plants are directly affected by climate conditions since the environment is not isolated. The stable conditions found in a greenhouse do not exist in the field.
Cucumber Irrigation and Fertilization
In a greenhouse environment, irrigation and fertilization can be better controlled. Using modern irrigation techniques, such as drip irrigation systems, allows you to provide the plants with the right amount of water and nutrients. Additionally, regularly fertilizing the soil in the greenhouse makes it easier to supply the essential nutrients the plants need. In the field, however, irrigation and fertilization cannot be performed as precisely as in a greenhouse due to the influence of unexpected weather conditions, such as unplanned rainfall. This makes it more challenging to apply water and nutrients at the optimal time.

Cucumber Harvest Time and Yield

Cucumbers grown in a greenhouse can generally be harvested earlier and over a longer period compared to those grown in open fields. Early harvesting is possible because the greenhouse environment provides protection from external weather conditions. Additionally, the controlled environment of a greenhouse often results in better yields throughout the growing season.
In contrast, cucumbers grown in the field are more susceptible to adverse weather conditions, which can shorten the harvest period and result in lower yields compared to greenhouse-grown cucumbers.

Cucumber Disease and Pest Control

Greenhouses offer better protection against external pests and diseases. This reduces the need for chemical interventions and supports healthier plant growth. However, even in greenhouses, disease and pest management is necessary, though it is generally easier to control in a protected environment.
In the field, cucumbers are directly exposed to external environmental factors, making pest and disease control more challenging. The risk of infection from diseases and pests is significantly higher for field-grown cucumbers compared to those grown in a greenhouse.

Cucumber Production Costs

Greenhouse setup and operating costs are generally higher compared to field cultivation. However, the higher yield and extended harvest period in greenhouse cucumber production can often offset these costs.
Given these differences, both greenhouse and field cucumber cultivation have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of method depends on various factors such as the farmer’s available resources, climate conditions, and market demands.

Cucumber Disease and Pest Control

Greenhouses offer better protection for plants against external pests and diseases. This helps reduce the need for chemical interventions and supports healthier plant growth. However, even within a greenhouse, it may still be necessary to combat diseases and pests, though controlling them is generally easier in this environment.
In contrast, cucumbers grown in the field are directly exposed to adverse external conditions, making pest and disease management much more challenging. The risk of infection from pests and diseases is significantly higher for field-grown cucumbers compared to those cultivated in a greenhouse.

Cucumber Production Costs

Greenhouse setup and operating costs are generally higher than those of field cultivation. However, the higher yield and longer harvest period typically associated with greenhouse cucumber production can offset these costs.
Considering these differences, both greenhouse and field cultivation have their advantages and disadvantages. The choice of cultivation method depends on factors such as the farmer’s resources, climate conditions, and market demands.

Cucumber Seed Selection and Planting

Selecting high-quality seeds is crucial for successful cucumber cultivation. Once you have chosen the appropriate seeds, you can plant them directly into the soil. Plant the seeds at a depth of approximately 2.5 cm and space them 30-45 cm apart.

How to Grow Cucumber Seedlings?

If you prefer to use seedlings, ensure that they have a healthy root system free from diseases. The leaves should be healthy and green in color. Wilted, yellowed, or spotted leaves are signs that the plant is not in good condition. Additionally, the stem should not be too thin. The growing environment for seedlings is important, including humidity and temperature levels.

Cucumber Irrigation Methods

Cucumbers require consistent watering. Establish a regular irrigation schedule. For example, if you water the plants every three days, ensure that they receive sufficient water at each interval when the soil surface starts to dry out. However, avoid overwatering to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Increasing Yield in Cucumber Cultivation and Fertilization

Using the right type of fertilizer at the right time is crucial. As plants grow, regular fertilization may be required. Typically, fertilizing twice a week during the growth period is appropriate. Proper and high-quality fertilization leads to increased yield and improved quality in plants.

For the flowering stage, bloom-enhancing fertilizers should be used. Right after the flowering stage, fertilizers that boost pollen production should be applied. Additionally, fertilizers aimed at promoting the elongation and growth of cucumber plants should be used.

Since most of our open-field soils are low in organic matter and humus, the application of organic fertilizers before planting is highly beneficial. Fertilizer should be applied depending on water usage: "Less water, less fertilizer; more water, more fertilizer." As plants grow, regular fertilization may be necessary.

For foliar fertilization, during the plant’s growth period, apply 200-250 g of Migma Foliar 20-20-20+TE in 100 L of water. During the flowering period, use 250 g of Migma Foliar 10-40-10+2MgO+TE in 100 L of water. In the fruiting period, until the fruits enlarge, apply 250 g of Migma Foliar 10-10-40+TE in 100 L of water.
This practice can be supplemented with amino acid-based fertilizers like Migma Aminado. Generally, applying soil fertilizers twice a week during the plant's growth period is appropriate. The amount of fertilizer required varies depending on the number of plants in the field and the frequency of fertilization.

The amount of fertilizer needed per plant is 1 ppm. Multiplying the number of plants by the number of non-fertilization days helps determine the total amount of fertilizer required. Using the right and high-quality fertilizers not only increases yield but also enhances the quality of the crops.
For the flowering period, bloom-enhancing fertilizers should be used. Right after the flowering stage, fertilizers that boost pollen production should be applied, followed by fertilizers designed to promote the elongation and growth of cucumber plants. Since cucumber harvesting typically occurs every other day, fertilizers should be applied on the days when harvesting takes place. For cucumber plants ready for harvest, 1.5-2 kg of Migma Ultra 20-10-20+TE should be applied.

Supporting Cucumber Plants

Cucumber plants have a vining structure, so they may require support. As the plants grow, you can use wires or strings to create a supportive structure. Training the plants on strings makes maintenance and labor easier.

When Are Cucumbers Harvested?

Cucumbers are typically ready for harvest about 50-70 days after planting. Before harvesting, pay attention to the size and color of the cucumbers. Cucumbers harvested while young are usually sweeter and juicier. During harvesting, it is crucial to handle the plants gently to avoid breaking stems or damaging the plant.
By following these basic steps, you can grow your cucumbers either in the field or under cover. Since each region has a different climate, you can adjust the planting date and care methods according to the climate in your area.