Get Ready for a Bumper Cucumber Crop: How to Grow Cucumbers in Calgary

Calgary’s climate can be tough, but don’t let that deter you from growing juicy, delicious cucumbers in your garden! With a little planning and care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown cucumbers throughout the summer. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow cucumbers in Calgary, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your bounty.

Choosing the Right Cucumber Variety

The first step to successful cucumber growing is selecting the right variety for Calgary’s climate. Look for varieties that are:

• Cold-tolerant: Calgary’s summers are short, so choose varieties that can withstand cooler temperatures and mature quickly.
• Disease-resistant: Cucumbers are susceptible to various diseases, so choose varieties with good disease resistance.
• Suitable for your growing method: Consider whether you’ll be growing your cucumbers in the ground, in containers, or on a trellis.

Here are a few cucumber varieties that are well-suited for Calgary:

• Marketmore 76: This hybrid is known for its high yield, disease resistance, and long, slender fruits.
• Salad Bush: This compact variety is perfect for container gardening and produces an abundance of small, crisp cucumbers.
• National Pickling: If you’re looking to make pickles, this variety is known for its high yield and small, firm cucumbers.
• Armenian Cucumber: This heirloom variety thrives in cooler climates and produces small, flavorful cucumbers.

Planning Your Cucumber Garden

Once you’ve chosen your cucumber variety, it’s time to plan your garden. Consider these factors:

• Sunlight: Cucumbers need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a spot in your garden that receives plenty of sun.
• Soil: Cucumbers prefer well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.8. Amend your soil with compost or manure to improve drainage and fertility.
• Spacing: Give your cucumber plants ample space to grow. Space them 12-18 inches apart for vining varieties and 12 inches apart for bush varieties.
• Trellising: If you’re growing vining varieties, provide support with a trellis or stakes. This will help the plants grow vertically, making it easier to harvest and prevent diseases.

Planting Your Cucumber Seeds

You can start your cucumber seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date or directly sow them outdoors after the last frost date.

Starting Seeds Indoors:

• Fill seed trays with seed-starting mix and moisten the soil.
• Sow 1-2 seeds per cell and cover them with about 1/4 inch of soil.
• Keep the soil moist and warm (70-75°F).
• Once seedlings have 2-3 true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the garden.

Direct Sowing:

• Wait until the soil temperature has warmed to at least 60°F.
• Dig a shallow furrow about 1/2 inch deep and sow seeds 6-12 inches apart.
• Cover the seeds with soil and water thoroughly.

Caring for Your Cucumber Plants

Once your cucumbers are planted, it’s important to provide them with the proper care:

• Watering: Cucumbers need consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil stays evenly moist.
• Fertilizing: Feed your cucumber plants with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and fewer fruits.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your cucumber plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Pest and Disease Management: Keep an eye out for pests and diseases like cucumber beetles, aphids, and powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap to manage pests.

Harvesting Your Cucumbers

Your cucumbers will be ready to harvest in about 50-70 days after planting, depending on the variety. Harvest cucumbers when they are young and tender, as they will become bitter and tough if left on the vine too long.

• Pick cucumbers regularly: Harvesting cucumbers regularly encourages the plant to produce more fruit.
• Cut cucumbers with a sharp knife: Don’t pull cucumbers off the vine, as this can damage the plant.
• Store cucumbers in the refrigerator: Cucumbers will last for several days in the refrigerator.

Enjoying Your Homegrown Cucumbers

There are countless ways to enjoy your freshly harvested cucumbers! Add them to salads, sandwiches, and dips, or pickle them for a tasty treat. You can also use cucumber peels to make refreshing cucumber water.

The End of the Cucumber Journey: A Final Word

Growing cucumbers in Calgary can be a rewarding experience. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious cucumbers. Remember to choose the right variety, provide adequate sunlight and water, and be prepared to deal with potential pests and diseases. Enjoy your homegrown cucumbers!

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: When is the best time to plant cucumbers in Calgary?

A: The best time to plant cucumbers in Calgary is after the last frost date, typically around the end of May or beginning of June. You can start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date to get a head start.

Q: How often should I water my cucumbers?

A: Cucumbers need consistent moisture, so water them deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather. Aim to water them every 1-2 days, depending on the weather conditions.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cucumbers in Calgary?

A: Common pests include cucumber beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Common diseases include powdery mildew, downy mildew, and bacterial wilt. Use organic pest control methods or insecticidal soap to manage pests, and practice good sanitation to prevent diseases.

Q: Can I grow cucumbers in containers in Calgary?

A: Yes, you can grow cucumbers in containers in Calgary. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches wide and deep, and use a well-draining potting mix. Provide ample sunlight and water regularly.

Q: How long does it take for cucumbers to mature?

A: Cucumbers typically take 50-70 days to mature, depending on the variety. Check the seed packet for information on the specific variety you are growing.