Growing Kirby Cucumbers
The kirby cucumber is the most common cucumber varietal use for pickling, but underneath, it is a cucumber just like any other and needs the same basic growing and care as other cucumber varietals. One interesting fact about all cucumbers is that just a fraction of an inch beneath their skin, the temperature change can be dramatic - up to a 20 degree difference cooler. Cucumis sativus is known as a vegetable but is actually considered a fruit and keeps company with the same familiy that welcomes watermelons and squashes. Kirby cucumbers are easy to grow and care for regardless of the climate, and because of their paper thin skins, many cucumber enthusiasts find them to be a particularly mild, easy to digest cucumber varietal. Learn from experts how to grow and care for kirby cucumbers in your home produce garden.
Preparing to Plant Kirby Cucumbers
Kirby cucumbers prefer full sunlight all day long and a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They prefer moist but not damp or soggy soil and adding extra nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium to the soil can greatly aid in their growth. For best results, wait a month and a half after the winter frost has planted before planting kirby cucumbers.
Growing and Caring for Kirby Cucumbers
Kirby cucumbers need lots of water, and it is best to offer water in the morning for better absorption to the root system. They can take as long as 65 days before cucumbers are ready for harvest, although time to maturity can vary depending on growing conditions. Kirby cucumbers enjoy growing on trellises so this should be considered as they grow. Kirby cucumbers are subject to a number of garden pests and fungal issues. The best prevention is proper watering and fertilization practices combined with proper spacing to ensure adequate air circulation between plants.
