Cucumbers are usually started by planting seeds directly in the garden. Plant after the danger of frost has passed, and the soil has warmed in the spring. Warm soil is necessary for germination of seeds and proper growth of plants. Plant seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep and thin the seedlings to one plant every 12 inches in the row or to three plants every 36 inches in the hill system.

Cucumbers may be transplanted for extra-early yields. Sow two or three seeds in peat pots or other containers 4-5 weeks before the frost-free date. Thin to one plant per container. Plant transplants 1 to 2 feet apart in rows 5 to 6 feet apart when they have two to four true leaves. Do not allow transplants to get too large in containers or they will not transplant well.

Cucumbers are large vines that are grown best in rows and trained on a trellis, pole, fence or other support making sure they get plenty of sunshine. The vines have tendrils that will grab hold of a fence or support and hold themselves up without needing to be tied. With trellises they take very little ground space and produce more attractive and straighter fruits.

Sometimes, if the weather is very moist and cool, you may see some white powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. This is called Powdery Mildew which is a fungus. While it is not good for the overall health of the plant, there is very little that you can do except wait for warm sunny weather. The good news is that it is not likely to damage the fruit. Always water low to the ground and never use sprinklers to water your vegetable garden.

Cucumber roots will grow to a depth of 3-feet if the soil is good, so water slowly and deeply. If the plant is under stress from lack of moisture, it just stops growing. It will pick up again when water is supplied. Leaves often wilt in the middle of the day during hot spells, but check the soil for moisture below the surface. If your summer heat is extremely hot, you may want to shade the plants some during midday. If the first early flowers fail to set fruit, don't worry. The male flowers open first, and about a week later you'll see the female flowers with-baby cucumbers at their bases. Pick fruits when they are young for best flavor. Each plant can produce up to 20-30 fruits.