Cucumber : Masterpiece

Vegetable

• Crops in : 75 Days

Description

Cucumber Masterpiece is an early and reliable British selection for outdoor growing, producing heavy crops of dark green skinned, slightly spined, 20cm (8in) cucumbers with crisp white flesh. Cucumber Masterpiece is tender and perfect for summer salads. Seeds are in the RHS Vegetable Collection.

Sowing Instructions

Sow seeds from April to May, 2.5cm (1 inch) deep in pots or trays of good seed compost at 68F (20C) under glass or in a propagator. Protect emerging seedlings from direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Alternatively sow direct outdoors, 2.5cm (1 inch) deep from mid May.

Growing Instructions

Pot on individual seedlings into 7.5cm (3 inch) pots of compost and keep barely moist to avoid stem rot. Maintain a temperature of about 20C (68F). Plant out 75x75cm (30x30 inches) apart once frost risk passed. If space is limited train up supports/netting. Prefers well drained, moist, rich soil in full sun.

Aftercare

Do not remove male flowers as outdoor varieties need pollination. Feed with potash fertiliser once fruiting commences and water and mulch regularly. Pick fruits whilst young and tender, older fruits can become bitter.

Nutritional Information

Cucumbers are 96% water, low in calories but high in potassium. Avoid peeling as the dark green skin is rich in carotenoid antioxidants.