LEMON CUCUMBER SEEDS

Cucumis sativus

One of the most delightful cucumbers available to us as gardeners is this little Lemon Cucumber. Vines are fairly tidy and prolific and fruits are easily spied. Some cucumber aficionados prefer to consume these luminous spheres when blushed with only a hint of yellow, at which point they are extra crunchy. Flavor sweetens significantly as fruits become striped and stippled with yellow, and the sunny globes look spectacular presented in a pretty bowl.

Lemon Cucumbers have thin skins, making them perfect for tucking into lunches and snacking in the garden or by the pool. Barely perceptible tiny black spines are a nod to its poisonous and prickly ancient African ancestors.

Sow directly into warm fertile garden soil when all danger of frost has passed. Or start indoors in 3" pots on or around the date of the last spring frost, sowing 2-3 seeds per pot. Tuck seeds about 1/2" below the surface of moist soil; press to keep seed snug and mist with warm water; cover with plastic to maintain moisture and temperature. Kept warm (75°F) and moist in bright light, seeds will usually germinate within a few days. Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual containers, or merely thin to one plant per pot. Grow on in bright light and harden off before planting outdoors, when soil has thoroughly warmed (65°F). Avoid root disturbance when transplanting.

Lemon Cucumbers are borne on relatively manageable vines and a small trellis, cage or a-frame will be sufficent for keeping it off the ground. Fertilize with seaweed extract when transplanting. Mulch generously and water frequently until established.

There is some evidence that marigolds as companion plants may deter cucumber beetles. Dusting transplanted seedlings with kaolin clay can also help. Healthy mature plants will usually be able to tolerate a certain degree of damage from pests. Cucumbers love seaweed-based fertilizers. Keeping several insectary plants in your garden to attract beneficial predatory insects is highly recommended.

Packet contains at least 50 seeds.