Cucumber Assorted

• Cucumbers are warm-season annual vegetables that thrive in Australia's spring and summer conditions.
• This assorted selection includes various cucumber types suited to different growing spaces and culinary uses.
• Fast-growing vines produce fruit within 8-12 weeks of planting, providing quick rewards for home gardeners.
• Both climbing and bush varieties are included, offering options for vertical growing or compact garden beds.
• Loved for their crisp texture, mild flavour, and high water content that's especially refreshing in hot weather.
• Excellent source of hydration and nutrients while being low in calories and easy to incorporate into meals.

• Water deeply 2-3 times weekly during warm weather, increasing frequency during heatwaves and fruiting periods.
• Position in full sun locations with protection from strong afternoon winds that can damage tender vines.
• Plant in rich, well-drained soil enriched with compost and aged manure for optimal nutrient levels.
• Apply liquid fertiliser every 2-3 weeks once flowering begins, choosing formulas higher in potassium for fruit development.
• Pinch out growing tips of climbing varieties to encourage bushier growth and more lateral shoots.
• Harvest cucumbers regularly in the early morning when they're crisp and before they become oversized and bitter.
• Mulch thickly around plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and keep soil temperatures consistent.
• Monitor for pests weekly and remove any damaged fruit or yellowing leaves promptly to maintain plant health.

• Plant in full sun with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best fruit production and flavour.
• Water deeply and consistently, keeping soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulch around plants to retain moisture during hot Australian summers.
• Provide support structures like trellises or stakes for climbing varieties to save space and keep fruit clean.
• Feed regularly with a balanced fertiliser every 2-3 weeks once flowering begins to support continuous fruiting.
• Harvest cucumbers regularly when young and tender to encourage more fruit production throughout the season.
• Plant after the last frost when soil has warmed to at least 18°C for best germination and growth.

• Powdery mildew appears as white powdery patches on leaves, especially in humid conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent spread.
• Aphids and whiteflies can cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves. Spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds.
• Cucumber beetles may chew holes in leaves and transmit diseases. Remove by hand or use organic pest control methods early in the season.
• Overwatering causes yellowing leaves and root rot. Ensure soil drains well and water only when the top few centimetres are dry.
• Bacterial wilt causes sudden vine collapse and is spread by beetles. Remove affected plants immediately to prevent spread to healthy vines.