Best time to plant autumn cucumbers

Autumn cucumber is one of the varieties supplied to the vegetable market during the off-season. Although the planting area and yield are not as high as spring cucumbers, they play an important role in the annual market supply. Let’s talk about the best planting time for autumn cucumbers.

1. The best time to plant autumn cucumbers

The best time to sow autumn cucumbers is generally about 75 days before the Descent of Frost; specifically, the suitable sowing time is from June to August. During this period, the temperature is high and there is plenty of rainfall, which is very conducive to the growth and development of cucumbers. If the sowing time is delayed, the growing period of cucumbers will be extended to the autumn when the temperature is lower, which will affect the growth rate and yield of cucumbers.

2. A complete guide to planting autumn cucumbers

1. Select seeds

For autumn cucumbers, choose those varieties that are heat-resistant, disease-resistant and have high yields. When choosing seeds, pay attention to the instructions on the packaging and choose a reputable brand so that the quality and purity of the seeds can be guaranteed.

2. Prepare the soil

Before planting autumn cucumbers, we have to prepare the land first. First of all, we need to remove weeds and roots from the ground to reduce the source of pests and diseases. Then, apply enough base fertilizer, mainly decomposed farmyard manure, with an appropriate amount of compound fertilizer . This can not only provide the nutrients needed for cucumber growth, but also improve soil structure and enhance the soil's ability to retain water and fertilizer.

3. Seed soaking and germination

Generally speaking, when the temperature stabilizes at around 25 degrees Celsius, you can start sowing. However, the specific sowing time depends on local climatic conditions and soil conditions. If you are worried that high temperature will affect the seeds, you can soak the seeds and germinate them before sowing to improve the germination rate and uniformity of the seeds.

4. Sowing techniques

When sowing, we have to pay attention to several details. First, before sowing, the soil should be leveled and raked to ensure that the seeds are evenly distributed. Then, dig trenches or make holes according to the predetermined plant spacing, with a depth of 2-3 cm. When sowing, place 2-3 seeds in each hole and lightly cover with a thin layer of soil. Be careful not to cover it too thickly, as this will affect the germination of the seeds.

5. Watering to keep moist

Since the weather is still relatively hot when sowing autumn cucumbers, the soil moisture evaporates quickly, so it is necessary to replenish water in time to keep the soil moist. But don't water too much, so as not to cause water accumulation, which will affect the breathing and germination of seeds. Generally speaking, it is sufficient to water thoroughly 2-3 days after sowing. If conditions permit, you can cover the soil surface with a layer of straw or shade net, which can both retain moisture and reduce temperature, and is conducive to seed germination and emergence.

6. Thinning and finalization

When the cucumber seedlings grow to a certain height, they need to be thinned out and transplanted. The purpose of thinning is to remove weak, diseased and excess seedlings so that the remaining seedlings have enough growth space and nutrients. Determining the seedlings is based on thinning, leaving only the healthy seedlings according to the predetermined plant spacing. Generally speaking, the distance between each cucumber seedling should be kept at 30-40 cm.

7. Scaffolding and vine guiding

Cucumbers are vines and need a trellis to grow better. When the cucumber seedlings grow to a certain height, it is time to put up the trellis. The materials for the frame can be bamboo poles, wooden sticks or wire mesh. After setting up the rack, guide the cucumber vines to climb up the rack. This not only improves the yield and quality of cucumbers, but also makes it easier for us to manage and pick them in the future.

8. Fertilization and pests and diseases

In the growth process of cucumber, fertilization and disease and pest control are essential links. Fertilization should be determined according to the growth of cucumbers and soil fertility, ensuring sufficient nutrition without excessive nutrition. For disease and pest control, we must adhere to the principles of prevention first and comprehensive control. Inspect the fields regularly and take timely measures to prevent and control pests and diseases when they are discovered.

That’s it