When to Start Cucumber Seeds Indoors and Outdoors
When to start cucumber seeds indoors? Cucumbers are a versatile and popular vegetable that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways from pickled to raw. They are also easy to grow from seed, making them a rewarding garden crop for novice and experienced gardeners alike. In this article, we’ll explore the process of starting cucumber seeds indoors and outdoors, as well as tips for growing healthy cucumber plants.
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Cucurbits thrive in warm weather, so it’s important to plan your planting to take advantage of the longest possible growing season. To get a head start, it’s best to start cucumber seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before transplanting into the outdoor garden. This gives your cucumbers a head start on the growing season and helps to ensure that the plants are well established by the time the last frost date arrives.
To plant cucumber seeds directly outside, wait until the last frost date has passed and outdoor temperatures have warmed. The soil should be at least 70 F (21 C) to support cucumber growth. Sow cucumber seeds 1-2 inches deep in rows or hills, spacing plants 12 to 24 inches (30-60 cm) apart. Cucumbers are heavy feeders and should be fertilized regularly. Use a liquid feed, such as fish emulsion or a soluble complete fertilizer at half strength, to encourage healthy growth and lush foliage.
Both indoor and outdoor cucumber plants need plenty of sunlight to thrive. Make sure the plants are getting at least 6-8 hours of direct light each day, but do not overwater them. Overwatering can stunt and weaken the plant.