Cucumis sativus
Cucumis sativus
Cucumber
●
Taxonomy
Family Cucurbitaceae · Genus Cucumis
Common Names
Cucumber
Context
nativeRegion
India and Southeast Asia
usdaZones
2-11 (grown as annual in most zones)
companionPlants
Beans, Corn, Radishes, Sunflowers, Dill
culturalUses
Widely cultivated for edible fruits; common in salads, pickles, and global cuisine.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry.
SoilLoose, fertile, well-draining soil rich in organic matter; pH 6.0-6.8.
FertilizerFeed with balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) every 3-4 weeks during active growth.
HumidityTolerates average to high humidity; good air circulation helps prevent mildew.
TemperatureOptimal range is 18-30°C (65-86°F); sensitive to frost.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitAnnual, vining or bushy; climbs or sprawls over support.
Mature Size1-2 m long (vines can extend more with support).
Growth RateFast-growing, harvest starts 50-70 days from sowing.
BloomingYellow flowers appear before fruits; both male and female flowers on same plant.
DormancyNo true dormancy; dies after fruiting in annual cycle.
Propagation
MethodsSeed, Transplant from seedlings
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer, after last frost.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPinch or prune side shoots for bushiness or better airflow; remove yellowing leaves.
RepottingSeldom needed, typically grown as annual.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to aphids, cucumber beetles, powdery mildew, downy mildew, and bacterial wilt.
ToxicityNon-toxic to humans; fruit is edible.
Recent Public Plants
No public plants yet.