A fast-growing warm-season climber or trailer producing crisp refreshing fruit through summer. Easy and prolific, best trained up a trellis in full sun with steady moisture.
At a glance
- Plant type: Edible plant
- Mature size: 2 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Cucumber
Cucumis sativus is a fast-growing edible plant in the Cucurbitaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity.
Where to grow Cucumber
Cucumber suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Cucumber does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Cucumber does best with regular, moderate watering. Feed regularly through the growing season for the best crop. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Cucumber in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Its ongoing care level is moderate maintenance.
Using Cucumber in the garden
Cucumber earns its place for edible harvests and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate as Cucumber. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Cucumber
Plant Sale lists Cucumber as seed. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Cucumber seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
