Patio Snackers

Class

Dicotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Cucurbitaceae

Order

Cucurbitales

Genus

Cucumis

Species

sativus

Description

An annual herbaceous plant, used in the food industry for its fruit, known as peponids, which have a characteristic elongated shape and a refreshing taste. Belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, along with melons, watermelons and pumpkins, it has a creeping habit or, when supported, climbs using its characteristic tendrils. The yellow flowers appear in late spring or early summer, attracting pollinating insects such as bees and bumblebees. Moderately hardy, it requires sunny positions in well-drained soil; it is also easy to grow provided certain precautions are taken, such as regular fertilisation and watering in proportion to the plant’s needs, taking into account weather conditions.

Species video

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Variety description

A very common plant that is easy to grow and has a very rapid growth cycle. It is ideal for late spring and summer, and it is during this period that the plant produces an abundance of flowers. It can be grown both outdoors and in a greenhouse without any problems; the only thing to bear in mind is to place it in a spot with plenty of sunlight. Pay particular attention to the various cultivation tips provided. The plant is characterised by excellent overall yield and produces fruit of good quality. This variety is particularly susceptible to powdery mildew.

Curiosities and special features

The fruits of the cucumber plant are used in moisturising hair care products thanks to their water content of over 90%; the use of cucumber juice as a skin moisturiser has been documented as far back as the 16th century. Low in calories, they are also eaten raw or cooked in salads, sandwiches and savoury spreads or, if harvested unripe, as gherkins.

Origin and distribution

A species native to the tropical biomes of a vast geographical area stretching from the Himalayas through China to northern Thailand.

Cultivated for food in the East as early as 2,000 years ago, it probably arrived in Italy in the 14th century, as evidenced by an illustrated medieval herbarium containing the first depiction of the speciesCucumis sativus; European settlers subsequently introduced it to the Americas, and today it is one of the most widely cultivated vegetable crops, consumed both as fresh fruit and pickled.

Flower size

As with many varieties of cucumber, the flower issmall.

Leaf

Leaf has palmate, Pentalobata lamina.

Fruit

The fruit is an elongated cucurbit, 2 to 3 cm wide and 10 to 15 cm long, weighing between 75 and 100 g and having a firm texture. It has an even colour and a spiny skin. In terms of sensory characteristics, the fruit has a fresh taste with an appetising flavour and a delicate, faintly fragrant aroma. Ripening takes place from early spring to early autumn. The variety is characterised by good organoleptic properties and, overall, presents a high-quality appearance.

Flowering period

Flowering lasts from late spring to early summer for a duration of 40 to 60 days.

Leaf colour

Solid colours.

Plant height

The height of the plant ranges from 0.7 to 1.5 metres, depending on its growth habit.

Lifespan

Annual horticultural plant.

Where to plant

This variety is suitable for growing on balconies, in large pots, on terraces, in outdoor planters and in flowerbeds.

Stem

A herbaceous stem covered in dense hairs; this variety has needle-like spines.

Flower

The flower is simple in form, small in size, with a dialipetal corolla and single-coloured petals. It flowers from late spring to early summer, with a flowering period of between 40 and 60 days. It is attractive to bees, butterflies and bumblebees.

Growth

A compact variety.

Plant habit

Typical creeping habit of growth.

Branching

Overall branching is abundant.

PH

The ideal pH of the growing medium is between 5.8 and 6.2; it is advisable not to exceed the neutral level of 7.0.

Soil preparation

Before transplanting in the open field in spring, dig the soil to a depth of 20–30 cm, removing any weeds, large stones and residues from previous crops. Then work in organic or chemical fertiliser, which will provide the necessary nutrients during the plant’s early stages of development. Next, use a spade to break up the denser, larger clods of earth to aid the distribution of the fertiliser. To improve drainage of excess water, thereby preventing harmful waterlogging, create a raised bed 15–20 cm high by mounding the soil, finally, carefully level the surface, taking care to create the planting furrows at a suitable planting density. Given the plant’s growth habit, we recommend placing stakes after transplanting, inserting them approximately 10 cm from the plant at an average depth of 20 cm, taking care not to damage the roots; then use materials such as raffia, twine or plastic ties for subsequent tying.

During cultivation, work the soil by hoeing to a depth of the top 2–3 cm, taking care to remove weeds adjacent to the crop.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Sun exposure

For abundant flowering followed by a good final yield, place the plant infull sun, preferably in the afternoon.

Ideal climate and temperature

The ideal temperature is between 16 and 24 °C during the growing season.The biological temperature range is between 10 and 32 °C.

Take care to avoid sudden changes in temperature and moisture levels, as the plant, particularly during the growth phase, may suffer from drying out of the root system.

Use

A vegetable plant typically used in the
the agri-food sector

Hardiness

A moderately hardy variety, it requires a sunny position in well-drained soil.

Soil

It prefers medium-textured or slightly sandy, well-drained and enriched soil; for large pots or containers, use a high-quality horticultural compost containing both dark and light peat.

Difficulty

If you follow a few simple tips, growing this plant will be easy, and the overall level of care required is moderate.

Growing tips

Here are some tips on cultivation practices and techniques specific to this variety:

Balanced fertilisation Avoid over-watering Requires generous watering but without waterlogging

Planting

Before transplanting, prepare the planting holes at a density that ensures each plant can develop properly; for this purpose, we recommend an average planting density of 3 plants per square metre. Transplant when the temperature has stabilised above the biological minimum. We also recommend using young plants with intact, light-coloured roots, positioning them with the root collar level with the soil surface or slightly above ground, ensuring that the root balls are well moistened and watering immediately after planting, preferably in the morning.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Pruning

Pruning to remove ripe fruit with a clean cut using clean-bladed pruning shears.

Propagation

Reproduction is by spring sowing in containers.

Watering

This plant has moderately high water requirements. Use rainwater, or alternatively tap water or canal water with an optimal sub-acidic pH, watering either manually or using a drip, sprinkler, run-off or lateral furrow irrigation system. When transplanting, support the seedling to ensure it settles properly in its new location, keeping the soil consistently moist but without overwatering to prevent root rot, whilst ensuring the root ball does not dry out. Subsequently, allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, keeping it consistently moist but not waterlogged; furthermore, it is advisable not to water the above-ground part of the plant during the afternoon or evening to prevent the onset of fungal diseases.

When using drip irrigation, position the dripper at least 10–15 cm away from the base of the plant.

During the summer, given the higher temperatures, it will be necessary to provide a greater amount of water and, if necessary, water more frequently, whilst avoiding waterlogging.

When sowing, moisten the seed, then bury it completely and cover it with a layer of horticultural compost and inert material; finally, keep the soil moist until the shoot emerges.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Fertilising

During the pre-planting phase, work a slow-release organic-mineral fertiliser into the soil to provide a base dressing, ensuring the seedlings have the nutrients they need during the early stages of development.

Subsequently, during the spring and summer, ensure a regular application of a water-soluble fertiliser specifically formulated for vegetable plants, to be diluted in the irrigation water and applied to the soil at the appropriate rates and intervals as indicated on the product label.

Read more on the Joyflo blog

Pet safety

No known toxicity in dogs and cats; consult your vet before administering.

Edibility for humans

Edible fruit.

Toxicity for humans

This fruit is non-toxic; however, avoid consuming large quantities and do not eat it if it tastes slightly bitter. You should also be aware of any intolerances or allergies you may have.

Tip

Transplanting should be carried out using young seedlings with no more than 4–5 true leaves, which should be plump and brightly coloured. The roots must be wrapped around the root ball and appear light in colour, white and free from necrosis. Transplanting should be carried out in a raised bed at least 15–20 cm above ground level. The root ball should be left protruding from the soil by at least 3–5 mm. Pest and disease control must be carried out promptly using authorised plant protection products.