Cucumber

Cucumis sativus
Sow cucumbers direct into the soil after all danger of frost has past; in tropical areas sow during the dry season. Cucumbers are suitable for temperate, subtropical and tropical areas. Sow 1 – 2 cm deep and 50 cm apart if on a trellis, 1 metre apart if planted into raised mounds. Growing on a trellis reduces fungal problems, it is also helpful to spray regularly with seaweed. Prepare the soil with compost and well-rotted manure; cucumbers dislike acidity and need frequent watering. Pinch out the terminal bud to encourage branching, as side branches are more fruitful. Harvest cucumbers daily with 2 cm of stem to reduce water loss and improve storage of the fruit.