Cucumbers are a must have in my home garden...
The cucumber contains 96% water, the highest in any vegetable. So it needs plenty of moisture. To help hold all possible moisture, apply large quantities of well rotted manure or compost either broadcast or under the drill before planting.
Plant only after danger of frost has passed.
For the hill system, put plants 5 to 6 feet apart each way. Put in each hill a gallon or more of well rotted manure and a handful of a complete fertilizer. Work this well into soil so it will be at least 2 or 3 inches below seed.
For the row method, lay off rows 5 to 6 feet apart. To the seed bed apply well rotted manure or compost heavily and commercial fertilizer at the rate of 10 pounds per 100 feet of row. Mix well with soil, bed back on it, and keep seed well above manure and fertilizer.
Plant four to six seed in hills 2 to 3 feet apart. Thin to one or two plants after they are well established, but don't be in a hurry, as insects often destroy many young plants. Check your state planting guides for best adapted varieties in your area.
It is not necessary to wait until cucumbers are fully grown to start using them. They are excellent any time after they are 2 to 3 inches long. To keep them bearing, never let one ripen on the vine, even if they must be thrown away.
