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Vegetable Gardening

Question (probably dumb!) about cucumbers

13 years ago

I looked in the FAQs but couldn't find anything about how to tell when cucumbers are ready to pick. Also, do the little spines on the cucumbers come off, or do they need to be scrubbed off after picking? This is my first year trying cucumbers so I'm a complete blank slate!

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Comments (3)

anney
13 years ago
Well, I'd look at the information on the seed packet. That usually says how long they'll be for optimal harvesting. Many of us harvest them a bit smaller than that because they're usually very plentiful and the small ones are exceptionally good! That way, you don't risk the bitterness of cukes that are beyond their prime.

And no, the little prickles on the cukes need to be either peeled off or rubbed off if you don't plan to peel them. Some varieties, mostly the burpless kind, don't have those little spikey things at all, so you can just wash them and eat!

What variety are you growing?
cyrus_gardner
13 years ago
Cucumbers, summer squash, bell peppers(most) are picked young and immature.
In the case of cuvumbers, in particular, the smaller, younger they are the tastier they are.
But, in order to get a bang for your work, you have to let them grow to a certain size.
Now, that is your question, maybe? WHAT SIZE?
You have (you better) TO pic cukes when the seeds have not started to form and get CHEWY skins.
Most cucumbers are green (some hints of white). If and when they turn
yellow, they are toooo old for slicing. Experiment with some at different size and stages.
Cut then lengthwive, chech the seeds, eat them. The seeds should be very tiny and very juicy and soft.
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tastytravels
13 years ago
What type of cucumber are you growing?

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