What To Know
- Calgary’s climate, with its hot summers and occasional chilly spells, can be a bit of a challenge for growing certain vegetables.
- Look for varieties that are known to be disease-resistant and fast-growing, as this will give them a head start against the shorter growing season.
- You can also tie your cucumber plants to strings or twine, creating a simple and effective support system.
Calgary’s climate, with its hot summers and occasional chilly spells, can be a bit of a challenge for growing certain vegetables. But don’t let that discourage you from trying your hand at growing cucumbers! With a little planning and know-how, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown cucumbers all summer long.
Understanding Calgary’s Climate
Calgary experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. This means cucumbers, which prefer warm temperatures and consistent moisture, will need a little extra care to thrive.
Choosing the Right Cucumber Variety
The key to success in Calgary is choosing the right cucumber variety. Look for varieties that are known to be disease-resistant and fast-growing, as this will give them a head start against the shorter growing season.
- Slicing Cucumbers: These are ideal for salads and sandwiches. Look for varieties like ‘Marketmore 76,’ ‘Burpless,’ and ‘Sweet Success.’
- Pickling Cucumbers: These are smaller and have a firmer texture, perfect for making pickles. Try varieties like ‘Boston Pickling’ or ‘National Pickling.’
- Hybrid Cucumbers: These are typically more disease-resistant and produce a higher yield, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Preparing Your Garden Bed
Cucumbers need well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Here’s how to prepare your garden bed:
1. Choose a sunny location: Cucumbers thrive in full sun, so select a spot that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
2. Amend the soil: Add compost or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.
3. Test the soil pH: Cucumbers prefer a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.5. You can purchase a soil testing kit from your local garden center.
4. Remove weeds: Weed the area thoroughly before planting to prevent competition for nutrients and water.
Planting Your Cucumber Seeds
Once your garden bed is ready, you can plant your cucumber seeds:
1. Direct sowing: Wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 18°C (64°F) before direct sowing your seeds. Plant seeds 1-2 cm (½-¾ inch) deep and 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart.
2. Starting seeds indoors: If you want to get a head start, you can start your seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date. Use peat pots or biodegradable seed starting trays to avoid root disturbance when transplanting.
3. Water thoroughly: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Providing Support for Your Cucumber Plants
Cucumbers are vining plants that can grow quite long. To prevent them from sprawling on the ground and becoming susceptible to pests and diseases, it’s important to provide support:
- Trellises: These are a popular choice for growing cucumbers vertically. They can be made from wood, metal, or even recycled materials.
- Cages: Wire cages provide a sturdy support structure for your cucumber plants.
- Strings: You can also tie your cucumber plants to strings or twine, creating a simple and effective support system.
Watering and Fertilizing Your Cucumbers
Cucumbers require consistent moisture to grow. Here’s how to maintain a proper watering schedule:
- Water deeply and regularly: Water your cucumber plants deeply every 1-2 days, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Mulch: Applying a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around your cucumber plants can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
As for fertilizing, cucumbers are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization:
- Start with a balanced fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) at planting time.
- Side-dress with nitrogen: Side-dress your cucumber plants with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 2-3 weeks to encourage vigorous growth.
Protecting Your Cucumbers from Pests and Diseases
Calgary’s climate can attract various pests and diseases that can harm your cucumber plants. Here’s how to keep your cucumbers healthy:
- Inspect regularly: Check your cucumber plants for signs of pests and diseases, such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or holes in the leaves.
- Use natural pest control: Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings to your garden to help control pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
- Prevent diseases: Practice crop rotation and avoid overcrowding to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Harvesting Your Delicious Cucumbers
Once your cucumber plants start producing fruit, it’s time to harvest! Here’s how to know when your cucumbers are ready:
- Slicing cucumbers: Harvest when they are about 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) long and firm to the touch.
- Pickling cucumbers: Harvest when they are about 7-10 cm (3-4 inches) long and still firm.
- Don’t wait too long: If you let cucumbers grow too large, they can become tough and bitter.
The End of the Cucumber Season in Calgary
As the weather cools in Calgary, your cucumber plants will begin to slow down their growth. You can extend the season by covering your plants with a row cover or frost blanket, but eventually, the cold weather will catch up. Once the first frost arrives, your cucumber plants will die back.
A Cucumber Harvest You’ll Cherish
Growing cucumbers in Calgary may require a little extra effort, but the reward of fresh, homegrown cucumbers is well worth it. With a little patience and the right techniques, you can enjoy the sweet taste of summer in Calgary for months to come.
Top Questions Asked
Q: When is the best time to plant cucumbers in Calgary?
A: The best time to plant cucumbers in Calgary is after the last frost, which is typically in late May or early June.
Q: Can I grow cucumbers in containers in Calgary?
A: Yes, you can grow cucumbers in containers in Calgary. Choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide.
Q: How often should I water my cucumbers in Calgary?
A: You should water your cucumbers deeply every 1-2 days, especially during hot, dry weather.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cucumbers in Calgary?
A: Some common pests and diseases that affect cucumbers in Calgary include cucumber beetles, aphids, powdery mildew, and downy mildew.
Q: Can I save seeds from my cucumbers to plant next year?
A: You can save seeds from your cucumbers, but it’s important to note that hybrid cucumbers will not produce true-to-type seeds. If you want to save seeds, choose open-pollinated varieties.
