How to Train Cucumbers

Last Updated: September 15, 2021 Approved

Cucumbers benefit from growing with a single main stem that is tied to a vertical stake, cane or string. This is known as training the cucumbers. Training cucumbers to grow where you want them to is easy and should enable you to make the most of their growth.

Steps

1
Plant the cucumbers in growing bags or pots if growing in a greenhouse. Otherwise, plant them in the garden as usual.
2
For cucumbers growing in a greenhouse:
- Place the vertical stake item between each bag or pot and extend it to the eaves of the greenhouse roof.
- Place horizontal wires or string along the roof length.
- Train the cucumbers to grow up the stake and then along the wire or string. The cucumbers will hang down as they grow.
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3
For cucumbers growing in the garden:
- Insert the vertical stake item between each cucumber plant into the soil.
- Tie horizontal wire or string along the top end of each stake. You might need to add additional stakes for stability of the growing string.
- Train the cucumber plants to grow up each stake and then along the wire or string.
4
Tie each cucumber plant onto the support as it grows.
5
To facilitate the correct growth, be sure to pinch out all side shows, flowers and tendrils until the cucumber plant reaches the wire or string. At this point, train two sideshows to run along the horizontal wire or string.

Community Q&A

Question

What is a "side show" on a cucumber plant?

Ninox

Top Answerer

Side show are stems that appear next to to principal plant. They won't produce fruits, so you can remove them.
Question

What is the importance of pinching in growing cucumbers?

Ninox

Top Answerer

By pinching your plant, you help it to produce fruits.
Question

What's wrong with cucumber leaves that have tiny yellow spots?

Ninox

Top Answerer

Likely, your plant suffers from marrow mildew. You can get rid of them with an anti-fungus product.