How to grow... Cucumber

Rocket Growing Guides

Cucumber

Whilst cucumbers are a very good salad vegetable to grow, we also recommend growing them so that you can enjoy a nice refreshing summer drink too. After all, what would a glass of Pimms be without a couple of cucumber slices?

  • Planting Tips
  • Growing advice
  • Chef's Corner
Choosing a site for growing veg

The right site

Cucumbers are best grown under cover – in a greenhouse, polytunnel or in a conservatory. If you’re planting them outside be sure to choose a sunny, sheltered spot.

growing veg in pots and raised beds

Can be grown in....

Planters, raised beds, pots, containers or grow bags.

Autumn Winter Large Vegetable Garden

How far apart?

About 30-40cm apart.

When your plants arrive....

Your baby plants will arrive carefully packed in straw. They may look a little tired from their travels. This is quite normal but, as soon as possible, carefully unpack them all.

Each type of plant will have an identification label to help you spot which they are. Lay them out into their respective plant types (e.g. lettuce, cauliflower, peas). Then, stand them upright, being especially careful with the ones that aren’t in bio pots. The roots may be dry, so give them all a good drink of water by submerging the roots for a few minutes in a container of clean water.

Now you are ready to plant your Rocket Garden. Try to do this within 24 hours of the arrival of your plants.

Looking after your plants....

Plant them outside when the risk of frost has passed and the weather has warmed up. Until then, keep them in pots under cover.

Cucumber

Water regularly

Water them often to keep the soil evenly moist (but don’t drown them!)

Watch out for....

  • Mildew on the leaves

They're ready to harvest when....

You can easily tell when your cucumber is ready to be harvested by their size. Cut them carefully from the stalk.

Storage Tips

Harvest them as you want to eat them – they will store in the fridge for a few days, but are much better cooked fresh.

Ways to cook

Great sliced thinly and served with a light dressing, or cut into batons and served with hummus. Or make a raita dip.

Recipe Ideas

Coming soon!

Types to try