No garden needed: growing king cucumbers at home
King cucumbers are a variety of tasty and nourishing cucumbers that can be grown easily at home, even without a garden. Their pot or container cultivation on a balcony or terrace can offer an abundance of fresh fruit with high yield. Here is a practical guide to growing king cucumbers at home:
1. Choice of container and substrate
Choose a deep container at least 30 cm high to allow the roots to develop fully. Make sure the container has drainage holes to avoid excess water. Use a mixture of soil rich in organic matter to promote cucumber growth.
2. Seed planting
Sow the king cucumber seeds at a depth of about 2 cm in the moist substrate. Place the container in a sunny place to allow plants to receive at least 6 hours of sun a day. Do not forget to water regularly, but do not flood the substrate.
3. Plant maintenance
Be sure to mentor cucumber plants to support them as they grow. Remove yellow or damaged leaves to promote air circulation and prevent disease. Feed the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month to help them produce more fruit.
4. Harvest cucumbers
King cucumbers are ready to be harvested when they reach their mature size, usually between 15 and 20 cm in length. Cut the cucumbers with a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant. Harvest regularly to encourage new productions.
5. Tips for a successful culture
- Monitor pest attacks such as aphids or slugs and act quickly using natural pest control methods.
- Avoid watering leaves to prevent mildew and other fungal diseases. Prefer watering at the base of the plants.
- Provide additional support to fruit-laden stems with meshes or ropes to prevent them from breaking under the weight of cucumbers.
By following these simple steps and applying these tips, you can enjoy a successful culture of king cucumbers at home, even without a garden. Harvest your own fresh and tasty cucumbers throughout the summer season and enjoy their abundant yield.