Lebanese cucumbers are a small, tender variety known for their thin skin and crisp, sweet flavour. They are perfect for fresh salads, pickling, and snacking straight from the garden.

Planting

• Best Time to Plant: Sow seeds in spring and summer when the soil temperature is at least 18°C.
• Soil Preparation: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0, enriched with compost or organic matter.
• Spacing: Sow seeds 1.5 cm deep and 30-40 cm apart in rows spaced 90 cm apart.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day).
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.

Care & Maintenance

• Support: Use a trellis or stakes to keep vines off the ground, improving airflow and reducing pest issues.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser (10-10-10) at planting and a potassium-rich fertiliser during flowering.
• Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients.
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pests & Diseases

• Common Pests: Aphids, whiteflies, and cucumber beetles can attack plants. Use companion planting and insecticidal soap to control infestations.
• Common Diseases: Powdery mildew and downy mildew can occur. Ensure good air circulation and avoid watering the foliage to prevent these issues.

Companion Planting

• Good Companions: Corn, beans, and radishes help improve cucumber growth and deter pests.
• Avoid Planting Near: Potatoes and aromatic herbs like sage, as they can hinder cucumber development.

Harvesting

• When to Harvest: Ready in 50-60 days when fruits are 10-15 cm long and firm.
• How to Harvest: Use scissors or pruning shears to cut cucumbers from the vine to avoid damaging the plant.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week for optimal freshness.

Bonus Tip

Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production, so pick cucumbers frequently!

Happy gardening! 🌱

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