Cucumber variety "Altai" is considered to be one of the most successful products of modern breeding. This vegetable gives rich yields, and is also highly resistant to all sorts of weather phenomena. Unlike many other varietal species, this hybrid is universal, as it can be consumed in its raw form, and also as one of the ingredients of all sorts of dishes and pickles. However, not many gardeners today decide to grow this cucumber on its own plot, especially in a harsh climate. Next, we will examine in detail the main secrets of the successful cultivation of cucumber "Altai".
Variety description
"Altai" refers to the typical representatives of the genus Cucumber, Pumpkin family. This is a common vegetable crop, which is an annual herb of a vine-type with a creeping grassy stem. In section, it may be rounded or slightly faceted, on its surface there are many small hairs, which gives the stem characteristic pubescence. The growth rate of cucumber is average, it depends on many factors, mainly on climate, as well as on other growing conditions. Therefore, the length of the stem of a culture in natural conditions can vary in the range of 1-1.2 m.
Did you know? Cultural cultivation of cucumbers began about 6 thousand years ago in the territory of modern China and India.
Several lateral shoots are formed on the main stem, depending on the growing conditions, their number varies from 3 to 5. On the surface of the stem there are also specific processes, the so-called antennae. With their help, the plant is attached to the above-ground support. They are formed on the nodes of the stem, starting from 3-5 knots near the soil, reaching the last at the top. 
Numerous foliage with alternate arrangement is formed on the side shoots of the main shoot. It is a separate large leaves with a diameter of about 10-15 cm. The lamina is whole, lobed and palmate. On the side of the stem there is a notch on the leaflets, which is a characteristic feature of all members of the genus Cucumber. The color of the foliage is often bright and saturated green, but during drought it can fade.
The root system of the "Altai" rod type. It is characterized by a main, well-developed root and small branched side roots, covered with numerous hairs. The main mass of the root system is at a depth of about 25 cm, but radially lateral roots can fill a space of about 1-1.5 m from the main root. In a greenhouse, at high humidity, the root system additionally forms the accessory processes (in the axils of the leaves, in the semionary knee, etc.).
Did you know? Cucumber is one of the few annual cultivated species with a unique root system. The total length of the underground part of the plant exceeds the aboveground by 100 times.
Flowering cucumber begins 35-40 days after sowing seeds. A few five-lobed flowers of yellow shade ripen on the plant. They are divided into female and male, which are characterized by a pistil or stamens, respectively. Female flowers are more numerous and much larger than male ones. They are located next to the male, in the axils of the plant by 1-2 pieces, but sometimes their number can be increased (depending on the growing conditions). Pollination is entomophilic, after it an oblong ovary is formed on the plant, which grows to oblong fruit with numerous seeds. 
Cucumber "Altai" is intended for domestic and industrial cultivation in a cold northern climate, so the variety is characterized by early ripeness and a short growing season. Collected fruits are distinguished by high presentation and high taste characteristics. They are used both in raw form and for the preparation of a variety of pickles.
Distinctive features of the variety "Altai":
- shortened stem (relative to related varieties);
- high degree of foliage;
- shortened whips;
- fruits gherkin type;
- small size and characteristic white fruit pubescence;
- reduced number of seeds in the fruit.
- high frost resistance;
- unpretentiousness to soil conditions and climatic regime;
- active fructification in the middle of June;
- the universality of the fruit;
- ideal size and shape of pickles for pickling;
- high yield yield;
- plant resistance to pathogens of powdery mildew and cucumber mosaic.
Fruit characteristics and yield
The variety has a rather high yield. From 1 square. m for the entire period of active vegetation in the conditions of open soil can collect 3.5-4 kg of fruit, which is about 35-40 tons per hectare. Fruiting varieties occurs within 45-50 days after the first shoots, while harvesting is carried out at least 1-2 times a week. The development of fruits occurs evenly, from the ovary to full ripeness, it takes about 8-12 days on average.
Such varieties of cucumbers are distinguished by high yields: “Bouquet”, “Everybody is jealous”, “Chinese miracle”, “Puch magnificence”, “Phoenix 640”, “Paratunka”, “Siberian garland”, “Amur f1”, “German”.
Characteristic fruits of cucumber varieties "Altai":
- average weight - 85-115 g;
- average length (full maturity) - 9-11 cm;
- form - oval, cornish type;
- skin type - smooth, dense, red-tuberous, with light white pubescence;
- color - rich, bright green;
- the ratio of length and width is 3.5: 1.
- taste - saturated with a pronounced aroma, no bitterness;
- transportability is high, the fruits are suitable for long-term transportation.
Selection of seedlings
Most often cultivated cucumber by growing seedlings, so the choice of quality planting material is the main condition for obtaining rich yields, as well as high-quality and healthy fruits. However, despite this, many inexperienced gardeners neglect the careful selection of seedlings, relying on the honesty of sellers. As a result, the cultivation of the long-awaited harvest is complicated by times. 
For planting in open soil in the northern regions suitable plants at the age of 25-30 days after sowing. They usually meet the following requirements:
- height of the aerial part - 25-30 cm;
- length of the perimeter knee - no more than 5 cm;
- thickness of the knee-knee is from 0.5 to 1 cm;
- number of leaves - 5-6 pcs .;
- the size of the lower leaflets is about 16 cm in diameter.
Important! If you are offered to purchase excessively long seedlings with pale green leaves - be sure to refuse such planting material. These plants were grown in conditions of lack of lighting, so often they do not have a high viability.
In temperate and warmer climates, younger seedlings are suitable for planting in open ground (15–20 days). Such seedlings are characterized by the following features:
- height of the aerial part - 15-20 cm;
- length of the perimeter knee - no more than 5 cm;
- the number of these leaves - 2-3 pcs .;
- the size of the lower leaflets is about 10-12 cm in diameter.
It is recommended to acquire planting material in specialized stores, since there is a high probability of encountering poor-quality planting materials in spontaneous markets and online stores.
When choosing seedlings, it is imperative to carefully inspect all plants for the presence of various pathologies, as well as diseases. Plants should be slightly moist, saturated green, without any stains or putrid lesions. It is also necessary to examine the lower part of the leaves, since various pests often develop on it (aphid, spider mite, etc.).
It is also worth paying attention to the pot, it should not have any damage and cracks, as this is the main sign of neglect of plants, as well as damage to the tender root system. If possible, be sure to look at the condition of the roots of seedlings. They must be well developed, without any damage and putrid lesions. Ideal roots should completely fill the pot substrate. This helps in the subsequent removal of seedlings from the tank, and also indicates a good growth potential of the seedlings.
VIDEO: HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST CROWN In some cases, unscrupulous manufacturers resort to a variety of growth stimulants and active fertilization of seedlings with mineral fertilizers, which significantly increases their growth rate and also improves their morphological features. However, such seedlings are often not very resistant to all kinds of environmental challenges, which leads to its death. To recognize such plants is quite simple. They are given overly intense green shade (compared to other seedlings), as well as a slight twisting of the leaves in the direction of the root system (as a result of oversaturation with nitrogen).
Acquired seedlings need to be put on a permanent place within a few hours after purchase. If it is planned to be transported for a long distance, the plants should be protected from drying out. To do this, they need to periodically moisten with a spray.
Soil and fertilizer
As mentioned above, cucumber does not belong to capricious cultures, therefore, it is possible to grow this plant with success practically on any substrates. But in order to get really rich harvests, you must take care of the most comfortable conditions for the crop. Traditionally, "Altai", like other varieties, requires highly fertile and well-drained soil, with a low content of nitrogenous compounds. 
The best option for him is an artificial mixture consisting of equal parts of humus, peat, sod land and sawdust. But to achieve the perfect substrate can be well-fertilized sandy or loamy soils. You can also successfully grow a culture on any other soil that has sufficient looseness and lightness. This can be achieved with the help of simple sand, which is diluted with excessively heavy substrates.
One of the main conditions for growing crops is the pH of the soil. Cucumbers do not tolerate acidic substrates, so even a slight acidification of the soil can cause growth inhibition and even the death of plants. Best of all, the acidity of the soil is in the range of 6.5-8. Monitor the indicator with special soil indicators.
A good harvest of garden crops depends on the acidity of the soil, so you should learn how to determine the acidity at home and how, if necessary, to deoxidize the soil.
It is also important to pay attention to the predecessor of culture. Best of all cucumber grows after onions, cabbage, tomatoes, legumes and sideratov. You should not grow a culture after the representatives of the Pumpkin family (pumpkin, watermelon, zucchini, etc.), and you should not resort to the cultivation of cucumbers in a monoculture.
The best option for the cultivation of this vegetable is a 4-year crop rotation:
- cucumber - the main culture;
- early potatoes - the first predecessor;
- onions - the second predecessor;
- beetroot - the third predecessor.
By preparing the soil for the cultivation of cucumbers resort since autumn, after harvesting the last harvest. At this time, the site needs to remove the remnants of the old culture, as well as other pollutants, after which it is good to fertilize the soil. To do this, on 1 square. m of territory you need to make from 3 to 6 kg of manure or humus and about 30 g of any potassium-phosphorus mixture. In order to give lightness to dense soils, sand in the calculation is calculated at the rate of 1-2 buckets per 1 square meter. m
If necessary, alkalify the substrate to a neutral or weakly alkaline state. To do this, on 1 square. m area contribute from 200 to 500 g of wood ash, chalk, dolomite flour or hydrated lime. After that, the soil is thoroughly plowed up and left alone until the spring thaw.
Important! It is not necessary to level the soil which is plowed up in the fall as it has to freeze thoroughly. This will reduce the chances of seedlings to be infected with all sorts of pests and infections from the soil, as well as destroy weed seeds.The next stage of preparing the garden for planting cucumbers begins in the spring, a few weeks before planting. At this stage, the site is further fertilized with mineral-organic fertilizer. Its role is played by a mixture of 3 kg of humus, 250 g of crushed coal and 50 g of any complex mineral fertilizer to choose from, the consumption of the working mixture is about 3 kg / sq. m. Then the soil should be plowed to a depth of 10-15 cm, and then leveled over the area of the site.
Growing conditions
Despite its frost resistance, Altai cucumber still belongs to representatives of hot subtropical and tropical regions, therefore this plant is particularly demanding on heat and humidity. Best of all this vegetable feels in open and well-lit areas, so it should be grown away from tall trees and all kinds of garden structures. At the same time, plantings must be provided with supporting structures that protect them from all kinds of damage. 
For a comfortable growth of cucumber, an average daily temperature of at least +20 ° C is needed. During the day, it should be within + 25-28 ° С, and at night it should not fall below +18 ° С. In this mode, the most comfortable conditions for fruiting are created, since at a temperature below +16 ° C, the ovary on the vegetable does not form.
It should be protected from plantings and from the heat, the temperature is more than + 35-40 ° C inhibits their growth, as well as fruiting. It is also worth mentioning that cucumbers love high humidity (80-90%). It intensifies the growth of plants, and also promotes active fruiting. That is why vegetable plantings require regular watering, especially during periods of drought.
Growing from seed to seedlings at home
Growing seedlings of this vegetable culture involves several stages. Seed material must be prepared in advance, as well as provide the most favorable conditions for rapid growth and the necessary care. Proper observance of all agrotechnical norms makes it possible to obtain healthy plants and ensure their long-term fruiting.
Seed preparation
Preparation of cucumber seeds for seedlings begins a few days before the estimated date of sowing. First you need to determine the age of the seed. It is not recommended to germinate fresh seeds, as seeds of 2-4 years old are the most germinating. The seed should be checked for viability, for this they are poured into a shallow transparent container and filled with 3% saline solution, prepared on the basis of table salt. High-quality seeds gradually settle to the bottom, hollow, not having an embryo, float above the water film.
Often quality seed does not require special treatment, but in order To protect the seedlings from a variety of infections, the seeds must be decontaminated. The procedure is carried out using a 1% solution of potassium permanganate or 70% alcohol. The seed is kept in the sterilization liquid for 25 minutes, after which it is thoroughly rinsed with warm water. 
Before planting in open ground, sterilized seeds are first germinated. To do this, they are spread on a clean cotton cloth or gauze at a distance of 1 cm from each other, wrapped in top with the same layer of material, then placed in a shallow kitchen container and moistened with warm water. Within 2-3 days at a temperature of + 20-25 ° C, the seeds give a small sprout about 3-4 mm long, after which they are ready to be sown in the substrate.
Content and location
Sow the seed in separate small containers with a depth of no more than 12 cm. Special garden cassettes or plastic pots are suitable for these purposes, but in their absence, you can also use disposable plastic cups. The substrate in the pots stuffed tight, but without surplus, as young plants need loose and well-ventilated soil. As soil for seedlings, you can use any ready-made soil for vegetable crops from a nearby hardware store. 
But it is best to prepare the soil with his own hands. To do this, mix turf soil, sand, peat and vermiculite (1: 1: 1: 1), or prepare a mixture of rotted manure, turf land and sand (6: 3: 1). As mentioned above, cucumber does not tolerate acidification of the soil, therefore, if necessary, such substrates must be alkalized with chalk or hydrated lime. A prerequisite for such a soil is sterility, which helps young shoots to avoid fungal infection. To this end, the ready substrate is poured in a layer of 1.5 cm onto a flat container and roasted in an oven at +120 ° С for 45 minutes.
Important! Cucumber seedlings tolerate excessively wetting the substrate, so a drainage hole must be provided in the pot for the seedlings.
Seed planting process
Sowing seeds spend a few weeks before planting seedlings in open soil. Often this time falls on the first half of April or the beginning of May. By the time of transplantation into the natural soil, at least 2-3 true leaves should be formed on the plants. At the same time, the seedlings must necessarily form an extensive and powerful root system. 
Each seed is sown in an individual container, it is a prerequisite for growing cucumber seedlings. The root system of neighboring sprouts can tightly twist among themselves, so any procedure for the separation of seedlings can cause their death. 
The previously prepared and germinated seed is sown in a slightly moistened substrate to a depth of 1.5–2 cm, after which it is tightly covered with a layer of soil about 1 cm thick. warm and lighted place. 
In conditions of good moisture and heat (about +25 ° C) within 10 days, the first full-grown shoots appear. After that, the shelters are removed from the pots and moved to a warm, well-lit place for further growth.
Seedling care
Care of young shoots practically does not differ from the cultivation of seedlings of other fruit crops. Plants contain in a warm, well-lit place at daytime temperatures from +20 ° C to +23 ° C and nighttime around +18 ° C. Moisturize the soil as needed, after the appearance of a small dry peel on it, but not more than twice a week. Watering is carried out with clean and warm tap water (about +22 ° C), since sudden changes in temperature have a detrimental effect on the growth of seedlings.
Seedlings also require mandatory lighting with fluorescent lamps, as for the growth of healthy plants, the duration of the light must be at least 14 hours. To do this, use special garden lamps or an ordinary room lamp. The seedlings do not need additional feeding at this stage, therefore they resort to this procedure only after the young plants are planted in open soil.
Important! If you do not have the technical ability to additionally highlight the seedlings, the plants must be moved to a colder place with a temperature of about +15 ° C, otherwise it will lead to excessive stretching and thinning of their stem.
After some time, the seedlings are diving into a new pot. The procedure is carried out once and only if the root system of the seedlings has completely covered the entire substrate. This can be determined by the drainage hole. As soon as the young roots get out of it - you need to immediately move the seedlings to a deeper capacity. Any pottery for plants is suitable as a pot, while the size of a new tank in diameter should be 3-4 cm wider than the old pot.
Approximately a week before planting the plants on the site, they are surely stabbed. 
This procedure increases the chances of seedlings to acclimatize painlessly, and also gives them the opportunity to prepare for a sharp cooling. To do this, during the week, pots of cucumbers are carried out daily to the open air. The first time the plants are transferred to the street closer to the middle of the day, for 2-3 hours. Further, over time, the length of time the seedlings stay in the air gradually increases, up to a full movement into natural conditions. After two days of continuous stay in the open air, the plants are fully prepared to move to the garden bed.
Transplanting seedlings to ground
After the first 2-3 of these leaves appear on the seedlings, they are transplanted into open soil. If cucumber is grown in a cold climate, you should wait until 5-6 leaflets appear on the sprouts, otherwise they may die. In addition, before transplanting seedlings to a permanent place, you should definitely wait for a favorable period for this. First of all, it is the absence of heavy rainfall and the average daily temperature optimum at +18 ° С. Often this period falls in the middle or second half of May. Crops are carried out in the evening from 18.00 to 20.00, since bright sunlight can lead to wilting immature plants.
Check out the most unusual varieties of cucumbers.
Young cucumber is planted in well-fertilized and carefully plowed soil, away from trees, bushes and garden buildings in open and sunny areas. Planted seedlings at a distance of 25-30 cm from each other in solid rows about 15 cm deep, with a row spacing of 50-60 cm. 
Cucumber seedling is a tender young plants with a fragile root system, so you need to carefully remove it from the garden pots. For this, the soil in the pot is watered tightly, which helps to completely soak the substrate to the desired consistency. After that, the edges of the pots with young cucumbers are slightly squeezed over the entire surface, which helps to separate the substrate from the pot. After that, with light shaking movements, the contents of the pots are taken out.
Important! Shaking the ground from the root system of seedlings is prohibited, as this will damage their delicate root system.
The seized plants, together with the soil, sit in rows, after which they are wrapped tightly in soil. In the case of planting crops on overly poor soils, seedlings are covered with a mixture of humus and sod land (1: 1), this helps to intensify their growth. After planting, the beds are poured abundantly with water and left alone until the moisture is completely absorbed. After that, proceed to the installation of support structures for garter plants. 
If there is a high likelihood of nocturnal cooling, in the beds equip a protective shelter. To do this, along all plantations, special arcs of metal or wooden materials are mounted, over which a transparent polyethylene film is laid. At night, the edges of the film are tightly covered with soil. This leads to a light "greenhouse effect", which can improve the overall temperature inside the structure.
Agrotechnics growing seeds in open ground
Today, the cultivation of cucumbers by growing sowing material directly in open soil is gaining increasing popularity every year. This agricultural application has many positive aspects, including low labor intensity and small total costs. But often, many people still fail to obtain healthy fruit-bearing plants, which is the main reason for the inappropriate cultivation of crops. Let us further understand the main nuances of this process.
Outdoor conditions
As mentioned above, cucumber belongs to the heat-loving types of crops, so the plants have serious requirements for environmental conditions. Seeding of seed material is carried out at the end of spring, when the probability of night frosts completely disappears. Mostly this period is at the beginning or middle of May, since at this time the soil warms up completely to + 10-15 ° С. 
The most favorable place for sowing is the southern side of the site, protected from cold winds, otherwise the crop yield is reduced by several times.
Best of all, if the site is located on a small hill, cold air is often present in the lowlands, which in early spring can lead to frostbite of the plantations. You should also take care that the level of groundwater at the site of future beds was at least 1 meter, otherwise moisture can lead to putrid diseases of cucumbers. In order to avoid stagnation of water, soil relief is often carried out with the help of river sand, especially if clay or chernozem prevail in the area.
Sowing is carried out directly into the open soil, avoiding complex greenhouse structures, as the variety "Altai" bears good fruit even in cold northern climates. But if you plan to get fragrant fruits until late autumn, you should grow cucumber in a well-equipped and, if possible, heated greenhouse. The best option is the construction of temporary protective structures made of metal arcs and transparent polyethylene film. 
Temporary greenhouses make it possible to create an optimum temperature for seedling, after which the structure is safely dismantled until next season. In this case, at the time of stable warming, quite adult plants are formed on the site for fast and rich fruiting. In addition, it is this simple technique that makes it possible to extend the total period of fruiting cucumbers, which is especially important for the cold northern regions.
The process of planting seeds in the ground
Sowing of seeds is carried out after a stable heating of the soil and atmospheric air to a temperature of + 10-15 ° C, since at lower temperatures the seeds remain in a state of anabiosis. Often this time falls on the first half of May, but if you plan to germinate cucumber under the film, you can sow 1-2 weeks earlier. Pre-sterilized and hardened seed is suitable for sowing.
Hardening is carried out for 48 hours, for this, the seeds are evenly wrapped in a single layer in a clean cotton fabric (or bandage), and then moistened with cold water. Wet tissue with seeds is placed in the refrigerator, then removed and sterilized.
Disinfection is carried out by soaking the seed for 25 minutes in a 1% solution of potassium permanganate or 70% alcohol. Hardening and disinfection is carried out a few hours before sowing, otherwise the effectiveness of the procedures decreases several times. 
Cucumbers are sown in rows, for this purpose, rows are made at a distance of 60 cm from each other and a depth of about 2-3 cm. Seeds are placed in the soil in small groups of 2-3 pieces with a distance of 25-30 cm. should be about 50 g / sq. After placing the seeds, the bed is carefully wrapped in soil and watered abundantly. In the case of an overly poor soil, the seed is covered with humus or a mixture of soil and sawdust (1: 1). After sowing, a sheathing for a garter or a film cover is installed on the plot (if necessary).
Watering
Since the bulk of the root system of cucumbers is in the upper layers of the soil, the beds with this vegetable require periodic and frequent watering, after the characteristic dry peel appears on the ground. In this case, the plants respond well to irrigation of foliage, therefore, watering the beds should be carried out comprehensively, otherwise the foliage may dry out and die. However, excessively moisten the soil is not worth it, since the constant stagnation of water can adversely affect the development of the root system and cause its putrefactive lesions.
Familiarize yourself with the advantages of drip irrigation at the dacha.
In conditions of sufficient humidity, watering should be no more than 2 times a week. First, watering the beds is carried out at the rate of 3-6 l / sq. m. Gradually, with the growth of plants, the flow rate increases to 6-12 l / sq. At the same time, the water must necessarily soak the basal soil to a depth of at least 20 cm. In the period of prolonged drought, the frequency of watering should be increased, up to daily watering. During prolonged rains, watering is stopped before the soil dries.
The most favorable period for irrigation is the evening time, since daytime solar radiation leads to a rapid evaporation of moisture even on the soil surface. For the procedure, use pre-heated naturally, clean and separated water with a temperature not lower than +18 ° C. It is forbidden to water the beds with cold water, as sharp drops have a detrimental effect on the growth of plants and even lead to shedding of the ovaries.
Important! On beds it is necessary to adhere to constant humidity, as sudden drops can cause bitterness in the fruits of cucumber.
Soil loosening and weeding
Timely loosening and weeding are among the main conditions for the proper cultivation of a vegetable such as a cucumber. For the first time, weeding and loosening are resorted to after the first shoots appear, and then repeated every 7-10 days. Soil processing is carried out carefully, since the bulk of the plant root system is in the upper layers of the soil, so there is a high probability of damaging it. 
To prevent damage to the roots, weeds are cut down under the root, going no more than 1-2 cm into the soil. Loosening is recommended using garden forks, which are carefully stuck into the soil around each bush to a depth of about 15-20 cm and then taken out. In this process should be carried out smoothly, without sudden movements, without turning the tool in the ground.
Soil treatment is carried out early in the morning or in the evening, otherwise weeding and loosening can lead to excessive drying of the soil. It is best to choose for this dry and sunny day, in between waterings. In the period of prolonged rain the procedure is carried out after a light drying of the soil.
Masking
Masking provides an opportunity to significantly increase the yield of plantings. Pasynka is called the non-fruiting shoots of plants that are formed as a result of their natural growth and development. After their removal, the plant is not required to spend extra strength on maintaining dysfunctional appendages. Instead, the plant organism directs additional forces to the active formation of new fruits, which ultimately leads to an increase in the overall yield. 
When pasynkovanii often remove all lateral shoots that are in the axils of the lower 5-6 leaves, as well as ovaries in the axils of the lower 3-4 leaves. The procedure is carried out very carefully, using sharp clippers or pruners, as a coarse pinching can damage the main stem. The most effective procedure is to remove the side shoots no more than 6 cm in length, since each extra 10 cm of stepsons “eat up” up to 1 kg of fruits.
In order to form the right fruiting bushes, you need:
- when the plant reaches a height of 40-50 cm, completely remove all its lateral branches, as well as the ovary;
- after lengthening the main stem to 80 cm on the plant, pinch all lateral shoots shorter than 20 cm, leave 1 ovaries on the remaining ones, and pinch their top;
- when the plant has lengthened to 1 m, only shoots about 40 cm long should be left on its top, and no more than 2-3 ovaries and leaflets should be left on each of them;
- after the bush has reached a height of more than 1 m, at its top leave 3 shoots 40-50 cm long with 3-4 ovaries and several leaves on each, if necessary, to pinch the top.
Garter
A good garter cucumber is one of the main conditions for high-quality and rich harvest. She gives the chance:
- protect the plant from mechanical damage;
- to improve the sun's illumination of the plant and its airing, which helps to avoid rotting of the fruit;
- save the total space allocated for the cultivation of vegetables;
- increase the intensity of bush development and fruit growth;
- simplify bush care and harvesting.
- horizontal garter - along each row at a distance of 1-2 cm, metal or wooden pillars are dug into the soil, between which they stretch several ropes or wires at a distance of 25-30 cm from each other, in the course of growth, the plants are woven into the support;
- vertical garter - is a U-shaped structure made of wood or metal, it is mounted along the entire row, after which thin ropes are lowered to the base of the bushes, which later become a support for the plants, often fasten the rope to small pegs, which are driven near each bush ;
- hybrid garter - a single vertical support is mounted on a small bed, from the top of which thin ropes descend, they are attached to small pegs driven at the base of the bush; plants are attached to the rope, after which the whole structure takes the form of a cone-shaped hut;
- garter on the net - strong supports are mounted on the two edges of the bed, between which a coarse-grained metal or plastic mesh is stretched, in the course of growth the cucumber is woven into the mesh, which becomes one of the most reliable supports for it.
Each of these methods has a specific purpose and its own shortcomings. The horizontal method makes it possible to build a quality support in just a few hours, but gardeners use it infrequently, since neighboring structures often shade each other. Вертикальная подвязка требует длительного времени, однако она незаменима, если под овощ заняты большие площади.The hybrid garter is used to secure small beds, since such a structure can hold no more than 10-20 plants.
To make the cucumbers grow well and feel comfortable even in a small area, it is worthwhile to install a trellis grid.
Garter on the net is the most universal way to fasten plants, as it includes all the positive aspects of the above methods. However, such designs often have a rather high price. That is why this method is used exclusively by experienced gardeners who have been involved in vegetable farming for many years.
Top dressing
Cucumbers require a large number of various nutrients, especially during the active formation of the fruit. For the first time, the beds are fertilized at the beginning of flowering, then the dressing is repeated at the beginning of fruiting, and then every 10-15 days, usually the cucumbers are fertilized no more than 3-4 times per season. The procedure is carried out in the afternoon, in the late afternoon, after watering.
VIDEO: SUPPORTING CUCUMBERS DURING FLOWERING As a feed suitable any complex mineral fertilizers for representatives of Pumpkin. But the most commonly used solution is superphosphate (20 g / 10 l of water), "Kemira Universal-2" (40 g / 10 l of water), and "Kemira Lux" (30 g / 10 l of water), which are applied under the plant root. The flow rate of the working fluid is about 5 liters per 1 sq. m plantings. Best of all cucumber responds to organic nourishment. To do this, use a solution of bird droppings (1:25) or mullein (1:10). The liquid is applied under the root of the bushes, while the working fluid consumption is about 5 l / sq. m
Pests, diseases and prevention
Most often, cucumber plantations are affected by the following infectious diseases:
- anthracnose - the disease causes yellowish or brownish spots on the foliage and fruits with a diameter of 2-3 cm, which eventually leads to shrinkage of the affected areas and their death, which is why anthracnose is often the main cause of the imminent death of plants; when a disease occurs, the plantations are treated with a solution of copper oxychloride (40 g / 10 l of water);
- bacteriosis - manifested by a variety of light brown spots on the green mass of plants, as well as oily or brown angular spots between the veins of the leaves, over time they cause wilting of the green mass, which leads to the death of plantations; they fight infection by treating the area with a solution of copper oxychloride (40 g / 10 l of water);
- perinospora - manifested in the form of yellow spots on the foliage, which eventually turn brown, the infection causes the bush to lag behind in growth, which affects its overall yield; in the event of a disease, the plantations are treated with Acrobat MC fungicides 69%, Ridomil MC 72%, Kurzat R or interchangeable analogues.
We recommend to learn how to deal with other diseases of cucumbers.
In addition, during active growing season, cucumbers can suffer from the following pests:
- thrips - active insect parasitization causes the appearance of rounded white spots on the leaves, which over time merge and cause the death of the green mass, the parasite develops throughout the growing season, which is one of the main reasons for the decrease in crop yield; To combat insects, use solutions "Aktellik", "Confidor" 20%, "Karate" or analogues;
- pincers - small oval-shaped insects with an orange-red or grayish-green shade of the body, the parasite sucks the juice from the plants, which leads to inhibition of growth and fruiting of the bush, with excessive development of the insect death of plantations occurs; It is possible to overcome the pest by treating the beds with Actellic 50% or Talstar 10%;
- aphid - is a small insect with a length of 2-3 mm, which is parasitic on the lower part of the leaf, sucking the sap from the plant, which leads to twisting and wilting of the foliage, and in advanced cases, and to the death of the plant; It is possible to overcome the pest by treating the plantations with solutions of “Confidor” preparations of 20% or “Karate” to choose from;
- cucumber bug - small sucking parasite, which often occurs throughout the entire period of active vegetation of the vegetable, during parasitization, the insect damages the young shoots, buds and leaves, which soon leads to the defeat of the ovaries, and in the advanced case to the death of foliage; destroy the parasite by treating the plantations with solutions of preparations "Confidor" 20%, "Karate" or with analogues.
It is useful to know how to get rid of other pests of cucumbers.
When treating cultivated plants with various means of protection, it is necessary to follow the following rules:
- spraying is carried out in the morning or evening, in dry, but overcast weather;
- working solutions are prepared according to the manufacturer's recommendations;
- exceed the recommended concentration of drugs for the treatment of plants is prohibited, as this may cause burns of green mass;
- treatment with drugs is carried out in protective gear, using a respirator;
- during spraying smoking, eating or drinking is strictly prohibited;
- after spraying the beds, it is necessary to wash with soap all open areas of the body, and to remove working clothes from the preparation residues.
Today, in general agrotechnical practice, the following protection means are actively used:- "Acrobat";
- Actellic;
- Allett 80%;
- "Bileton" 25%;
- "Karate";
- Confidor 20%;
- "Kuproksat";
- "Kuprosil";
- "Kurzat R";
- "Previkur";
- "Ridomil Gold" 25%.
Did you know? In Russia, cucumber appeared in the XVI century, during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. For a long time, the culture was considered fresh to taste, so the fruits in most cases were subjected to prolonged salting or pickling.
Harvesting and storage
Traditionally, the first harvest is carried out approximately 8 weeks after planting, in the middle or second half of June, after which the crop is harvested as it grows, every 1-2 days. It is best suited for this early morning or late evening. Often, for preservation and raw consumption, the cucumber is collected after reaching a fruit size of about 8-10 cm in length. But in the case of their preparation for preparing gherkins, the fruits are torn down after their lengthening to 3-5 cm.
Harvesting is carried out manually in a dry and sunny day. Fruits gently pinch off the stalk with the help of garden shears, shears or other tools. Collected cucumbers are placed in baskets or garden containers, and then, if necessary, poured into containers that are more convenient for transportation. The crop is removed from the garden carefully, avoiding damage to the fruit, otherwise the cucumber will fade for several days. 
Learn how to keep cucumbers fresh for the winter.
Usually, fresh cucumber is stored for no more than 14 days, and for longer storage of the vegetable, hot or cold pickling is used. Although fresh fruits can be absolutely successfully preserved fresh for 4-5 weeks. To do this, the cucumbers are placed with tails down in small containers filled with 1-2 cm of clean water, and then sent to the refrigerator (+ 3-5 ° С). In this form, the fruits remain fresh for at least 1 month, but it is necessary to change the water in the containers with fruits once a day.
Store cucumbers and protein shell. To do this, the fruits are carefully coated with egg white, and then dried naturally. After drying, the protein creates a dense film that prevents long-term evaporation of moisture from the fruit. In this form, at a temperature of about + 3-5 ° C, fresh cucumber can be stored for 1 month.
Possible problems and recommendations
As mentioned above, a fruit plant such as a cucumber is a rather capricious type, therefore, gardeners often face many problems during its cultivation. Among them the most common are the following:
- wilting and yellowing of leaves - is the result of non-observance of the general rules of cultivation of a crop or the result of damage to the plantings by various pests and diseases; in order to eliminate the ailment, it is necessary to adjust the watering and fertilizing of the plantations, as well as to carry out a complex treatment with chemical means of protection;
- ovary fall - may have many causes, but often is the result of irrigation of plants with cold water or excessively thickened crops; in order to eliminate the pathology, it is recommended to thin the plantations (if necessary), as well as to preheat the water for irrigation to at least +18 ° C;
- plant drying - most often is the cause of the development in the soil of various pests (wireworms, ants, sprouting fly larvae, etc.); in order to avoid damage to plants, a preplanting treatment with Fentiuram seed (5-10 g / kg of seeds) is recommended;
- putrid lesions - result from the overmoistening of the soil during irrigation; To eliminate the problem, the irrigation of the beds should be adjusted, and the plants should be treated with complex fungicides;
- sharp decline in yields - in most cases is the result of a sharp decrease in nutrients in the soil; to restore the fruitfulness of the crop, it is necessary to feed the plantations with solutions of organic or mineral fertilizers according to the technology described above;
- bitterness - is the result of sudden changes in soil moisture; in order to prevent the deterioration of cucumber taste, plants should be provided with a gradual and constant moistening throughout the growing season.
Familiarize yourself with the causes and methods of combating yellowing and drying of cucumber leaves.
Find out why the cucumber ovaries turn yellow in the greenhouse.
