Green Fingers

START SEEDS OUTDOORS

Plant heat-loving cucumbers in full sun only when weather is warm and settled and night temps stay above 50°F (10°C), first amending soil well with aged manure or compost. Sow groups of 2 to 3 seeds, 1 inch deep and 18 inches apart. When the baby seedlings are 2 inches tall, thin out extras, leaving one strong seedling per group. After thinning, provide a 3 to 5 foot strong vertical support or tomato cage around each seedling and train the vines up the supports as they grow. Growing vigorous, heavy-bearing cucumber vines up supports makes it easier to harvest the cucumbers, saves garden space, and helps prevent disease.

GROWING NOTES

Protect seedlings from marauding birds with plastic berry baskets, removing before plants get crowded. Shallow-rooted cucumbers need adequate and consistent moisture to produce sweet tasting, nicely formed cucumbers. Avoid overly wet or dry periods for good quality fruits.

HARVEST AND USE

Our baby cucumbers begin bearing fruit early. For best quality, cut rather than pull cucumbers from the vine when 3 to 5 inches long. They need no peeling, just slice and enjoy their crisp texture and flavor. Enjoy in a Mediterranean salad of sliced Green Fingers combined with very fresh plain whole yogurt, a little good olive oil, finely minced garlic and freshly chopped dill.