At what distance should cucumbers be planted from each other in open ground?

Cucumber beds are an essential part of any garden. The vegetables are used not only fresh but also for canning. To ensure a good harvest, it's important to know how far apart to plant cucumbers. A proper planting pattern will not only increase the yield of ripe vegetables but also help avoid some agricultural problems.

Does the distance between cucumber bushes affect the growth and fruiting of the crop?

Years of gardening experience have led to the development of planting patterns for each crop. This information was obtained taking into account all factors: climate, planting and growing conditions, and soil quality.

The distance between bushes can also be one of the factors determining the quantity and quality of the harvest. If, in an effort to save space, cucumber stems are planted too close together, the plants will begin to compete for nutrients in the soil.

The dangers of incorrect planting placement

Plants are harmed by either dense or sparse planting. Each has its own consequences and disadvantages. Each variety has its own planting pattern, which is specified by the manufacturer on the seed packaging.

Consequences of a close fit

If cucumbers are planted too densely, the following problems may arise:

1. Plants begin to compete for space, thereby reducing the level of energy spent on fruiting.
2. Thickets promote the accelerated spread of fungal spores. They also encourage the activity of harmful insects.
3. Cucumbers begin to form empty male flowers.
4. The plant is experiencing a deficiency of liquid, light and nutrients.

Disadvantages of sparse planting

Trying to avoid overcrowding, gardeners plant cucumbers farther apart. Ultimately, this leads to inefficient use of the plot. A different layout could allow for more plants in the same area and increase the yield. It's also important to consider that cucumbers thrive in humid subtropical climates with dappled shade.

Therefore, being far away from his fellows, he risks being exposed to the scorching rays of the sun.

Methods and schemes for growing cucumbers in open ground

Gardeners use two methods of growing crops on their plots:

• horizontal;
• vertical.

When choosing a method, consider physical strength and budget. Also, consider the size of the plot: in smaller areas, vertical planting is more efficient.

Horizontal method

This method involves planting seedlings in a spreading pattern or in warm beds. The density is determined based on the variety's characteristics, such as vigor, branching ability, and the length of the growing season. Forming a creeping bush is quite difficult, so bushes are planted at 50 cm intervals.

Vertical method

When vertically arranging beds, which are significantly narrower than those in the first method, additional supports are installed. These are necessary to ensure that the stems cling to them and grow upward. This can be achieved by installing a net or trellis. This arrangement saves space while doubling the yield.

Using supports simplifies the process of shaping the bush. If necessary, the planting can be denser by straightening the stems.

When planting in warm beds

This method is a variation of the horizontal cucumber planting method. The bed is positioned so that it is protected on almost all sides except the south. Buildings, fences, trees, and bushes can serve as barriers. A hole 35 cm deep is dug for planting. Thin brushwood, various rags, and paper are placed at the bottom, and slaked lime is added.

The top layer of soil is laid down. As the compost rots during the summer, it creates a warm microclimate that is ideal for cucumbers. In addition, carbon dioxide is released, which increases the number of female ovaries.

Distance between cucumbers when planting in open ground

The spacing between cucumber plants growing in a greenhouse and outdoors varies slightly. When planting vertically outdoors, use a distance of 40 cm. When planting horizontally, use a distance of 60 cm. On average, there should be no more than four plants per square meter.

Seeds

When planting seeds in a single row, the distance between cucumbers can be 20 cm. A 1 m interval is maintained between rows. Double-row planting requires parallel placement of seeds at intervals of 40-50 cm. The distance to the next row increases to 1.5 m. A staggered pattern of seeds at the specified intervals is also acceptable.

Seedlings

Seedlings are planted at 20-25 days of age. The distance between plants should be 40 cm for vertical cultivation and 60 cm for horizontal cultivation. The distance between furrows should be approximately 100 cm.

How does the distance vary depending on the cucumber variety?

Each cucumber variety has its own growth rate, spreading habit, and growing season. Climbing hybrids are best planted horizontally. If shaping the bush is desired, trellis planting is suitable.

Common mistakes

When caring for cucumbers, it's easy to make mistakes that can lead to a reduction in the quantity and quality of the harvest. This is most often caused by the following factors:

• poor quality planting material;
• violation of sowing requirements;
• incorrect selection of the site;
• a large number of male flowers.

Before planting, seeds are calibrated, disinfected, and hardened. They should be stored in a dry, cool place. Treatment with biostimulants will speed up germination. Careful attention should also be paid to creating seedling beds, correctly calculating their depth and location. Before planting, carefully study all the nuances of the variety.

Precautionary measures

Reduced yield is most often caused by the formation of a large number of barren flowers. To avoid this unpleasant situation, take the following measures:

• do not allow high planting density;
• avoid dense planting;
• cucumbers are planted in a shaded area;
• control the temperature regime.

Proper planting and care of cucumbers increases the quantity and quality of the harvest. Plants require timely watering, fertilizing, and preventative treatment against diseases and pests.