Sure, here’s an article on sowing time of cucumber with seed rate:
Cucumber is a warm-weather vegetable that is highly nutritious and easily grown. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium. Growing cucumbers can be easy if the right sowing time and seed rate is followed.
Sowing Time:
Cucumbers require warm temperatures for germination. The best time to sow cucumber seeds is in spring, when the soil temperature has reached about 60°F (15°C). In warmer climates, cucumbers can also be sown in late summer to early fall. Sowing at the right time ensures a good yield of healthy cucumbers.
Seed Rate:
The seed rate for cucumber depends on the type of cucumber and the spacing between the plants. The recommended seed rate for cucumbers is 4-5 seeds per hill. If the distance between two hills is 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters), then a seed rate of 2-3 pounds per acre should be used. For planting in rows, a 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) distance should be maintained between cucumbers.
Method of Sowing:
There are two methods of sowing cucumber seeds: direct sowing and transplanting. Direct sowing involves sowing seeds directly into the ground while transplanting involves growing the cucumber seedlings in a nursery bed and then transplanting them to their final position.
Direct Sowing:
In direct sowing, the cucumber seeds are sown in hills, with a spacing of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) between hills. Each hill should have 4-5 seeds, which are planted 1 inch deep into the soil. After 2-3 weeks, the seedlings will emerge from the soil and grow into healthy cucumber plants.
Transplanting:
In this method, cucumber seeds are sown in a nursery bed and the seedlings are allowed to grow for about 2-3 weeks. Once they have grown to a height of about 3 inches (7.6 cm), they are transplanted to their final position. The spacing between the plants should be 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters). Transplanting is a good option for areas with a short growing season or for those looking to get a head start on the growing season.
In conclusion, sowing time and seed rate are important factors in ensuring a good yield of healthy cucumbers. By following the recommended seed rate and sowing at the right time, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, nutritious cucumbers.