What to Grow With Cucumbers for Optimal Companion Planting
What to Grow With Cucumbers?
Cucumbers can be grown with a variety of companion plants.
Herbs like dill and borage attract beneficial insects that control aphids and aid in pollination.
Nasturtiums serve as sacrificial plants, drawing aphids away from cucumbers.
Marigolds deter aphids with their scent and are ideal for planting under cucumber plants.
Legumes like peas and dwarf beans provide nitrogen, which is beneficial for cucumber growth.
Cucumbers can also be companion planted with alliums such as onions and chives.
Lettuce is another suitable companion plant.
However, it is important to avoid growing cucumbers with plants from the Cucurbitaceae family, like pumpkins and squash, as well as potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, kale, sage, mint, and tomatoes.
Crop rotation every three years is advised to maintain soil health and prevent pests and diseases.
Cucumbers should be planted in well-drained soil with plenty of sun, and they require consistent watering and feeding.
Trellising cucumber vines saves space and keeps the fruit clean.
Pests like slugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles can be controlled, and powdery mildew can be prevented with fungicides.
Harvested cucumbers should be kept in the refrigerator, and lemon cucumbers should be picked when they turn yellow.
Cucumbers can be grown in containers with short vines.
Key Points:
- Dill and borage attract beneficial insects and aid in pollination
- Nasturtiums draw aphids away from cucumbers
- Marigolds deter aphids and are ideal for planting under cucumber plants
- Legumes provide nitrogen for cucumber growth
- Cucumbers can be companion planted with alliums and lettuce
- Avoid growing cucumbers with certain plants, including those from the Cucurbitaceae family, potatoes, and tomatoes
Did You Know?
1. Cucumbers and sunflowers make great gardening companions! Sunflowers can provide tall shade that protects cucumbers from excessive heat, while cucumbers help deter pests that can harm sunflowers.
2. Radishes are excellent companion plants for cucumbers. They not only repel cucumber beetles and squash bugs but also act as natural markers, helping gardeners differentiate cucumber seedlings from weeds.
3. Did you know that marigolds can improve cucumber growth? Marigolds produce a natural chemical called limonene, which repels pests like aphids, nematodes, and whiteflies, thus protecting your cucumber plants.
4. Growing dill near your cucumber plants not only improves their flavor but also attracts beneficial insects like wasps and ladybugs. These predators feast on aphids, cucumber beetles, and other common cucumber pests.
5. Beans and cucumbers are complimentary companions in the garden. Cucumbers can climb up bean poles, utilizing vertical space efficiently, while beans help improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, benefiting the cucumber plants in return.
Companion Plants For Cucumbers
Companion planting is a gardening technique where certain plants are grown together for their mutual benefit. When it comes to cucumbers, there are several plants that make excellent companions and can enhance their growth and productivity.
One popular companion plant for cucumbers is dill. The feathery foliage of dill not only enhances the beauty of any garden but also attracts predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings. These beneficial insects feed on aphids, which are a common pest for cucumbers. By attracting these natural predators, dill helps control aphid populations and keeps them away from the cucumbers.
Another herb that can bring similar benefits is borage, which also attracts pollinators like bees and beneficial insects that prey on aphids.
Nasturtium is another wonderful companion plant for cucumbers. It acts as a sacrificial plant, attracting aphids away from the cucumber plants. The bright flowers of nasturtiums act as a magnet for aphids, drawing them away from the cucumbers and protecting them from infestation. This sacrificial strategy can help keep your cucumber plants healthy.
Marigolds, with their vibrant colors and pleasant scent, also make great companions for cucumbers. These flowers produce a scent that deters some aphids and other pests, acting as a natural repellent. Planting marigolds under cucumber plants can help to deter unwanted pests and keep the cucumbers safe.
Legumes such as peas and dwarf beans can also be beneficial when planted alongside cucumbers. Cucumbers require a lot of nitrogen, and legumes are excellent nitrogen-fixing plants. They have the ability to take nitrogen from the air and convert it into a usable form in the soil. This provides cucumbers with the nitrogen they need for healthy growth and abundant fruiting.
Additionally, plants from the allium family, such as onions and chives, can be excellent companions for cucumbers. These pungent plants help repel pests such as aphids and cucumber beetles, preventing them from damaging the cucumber plants. Lettuce, with its shallow root system, is also a suitable companion plant for cucumbers, as it helps to shade the soil and retain moisture.
- Dill attracts beneficial insects that prey on aphids
- Borage attracts pollinators and beneficial insects
- Nasturtium acts as a sacrificial plant, drawing aphids away from cucumbers
- Marigolds deter aphids and other pests
- Legumes provide nitrogen for healthy cucumber growth
- Allium family plants repel pests like aphids and cucumber beetles
- Lettuce shades the soil and retains moisture.
Avoid These Companion Plants
While there are many plants that can benefit cucumbers when grown together, there are some that should be avoided as companion plants. Plants from the Cucurbitaceae family, such as pumpkins, squash, courgettes, and other gourds, should not be planted together with cucumbers. These plants are prone to similar pests and diseases, and planting them together increases the risk of infestation and the spread of diseases.
Certain plants should also be avoided as companions for cucumbers due to their growth habits or potential negative effects. Avoid planting cucumbers with potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, kale, sage, mint, and tomatoes. These plants may compete for resources, such as space, nutrients, and water, and can hinder the growth and development of cucumbers.
- Plants from the Cucurbitaceae family (pumpkins, squash, courgettes, and other gourds) should be avoided as companion plants for cucumbers.
- Avoid planting cucumbers with potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, kale, sage, mint, and tomatoes to prevent competition for resources.
“Plants from the Cucurbitaceae family, such as pumpkins, squash, courgettes, and other gourds, should not be planted together with cucumbers.”
Tips For Growing Cucumbers
To ensure successful cucumber cultivation, there are several important tips to keep in mind. Here are some key considerations:
- Cucumbers are warm-season crops and require specific conditions for optimal growth.
- Soil temperature is crucial when planting cucumbers. Wait until soil temperatures consistently reach the 70-degree range, generally about 2 weeks after the last frost. This ensures that the soil is warm enough for seeds to germinate and plants to thrive.
- There are two types of cucumbers: vining and bush. Vining cucumbers produce more fruit throughout the growing season. Consider the available space in your garden and choose the appropriate type accordingly. If planting vining cucumbers, provide trellises or supports to allow them to climb and save space.
- Spacing is vital for cucumber plants. They should be spaced 36 to 60 inches apart, depending on the variety. If using trellises, 12 inches apart is sufficient. Opt for an area with abundant sun exposure and well-drained soil for best results.
- Consistent moisture is essential for cucumber growth. Watering with a soaker hose or drip irrigation helps maintain proper soil moisture and prevents leaf diseases. Cucumbers require about an inch of water per week, so monitor the soil moisture regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Feeding cucumbers with a water-soluble plant food regularly is crucial to provide the necessary nutrients. Cucumbers have a high nitrogen requirement, so opting for a fertilizer with a nitrogen-rich formula will support their growth.
- Mulching with straw around cucumber plants serves multiple purposes. It deters pests, keeps the fruit clean, retains soil moisture, prevents weed growth, and provides insulation for plant roots.
Remember these tips to successfully cultivate cucumbers in your garden!
Dealing With Pests And Diseases
Cucumbers, like any garden plant, are susceptible to pests and diseases. Some common pests that can affect cucumbers include slugs, aphids, and cucumber beetles. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of these pests and take appropriate measures to control their populations.
One common disease that affects cucumbers is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a powdery white coating on the leaves and can hinder plant growth. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around your cucumber plants by spacing them adequately. If you notice the presence of powdery mildew, apply fungicides at the first sign to prevent its spread.
Harvesting And Storing Cucumbers
Cucumbers should ideally be harvested when they are the right size, avoiding overgrown ones that can taste bitter and have a less desirable texture. A specific variety called lemon cucumbers turn yellow and resemble a lemon when ripe.
To maintain the quality of harvested cucumbers, it is important to handle them with care. Storing them in the refrigerator for 7 to 10 days will help keep them fresh. To prevent moisture loss and maintain their crispness, it is recommended to wrap the cucumbers in plastic before storing.
Growing cucumbers on trellises not only makes harvesting easier but also helps keep the fruit clean. When planting cucumber transplants, set them at the base of the trellis and mulch around the plants to conserve moisture and deter weeds.
Companion planting can greatly benefit cucumbers by attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, and providing necessary nutrients. Adequate spacing, consistent watering, and proper feeding are important factors to consider for cultivating healthy cucumber plants and harvesting a bountiful crop. It is also important to stay vigilant for pests and diseases, taking necessary steps to prevent or control them. By practicing thoughtful companion planting and proper care, you can enjoy the delicious taste of homegrown cucumbers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What grows well next to cucumbers?
In addition to legumes, another plant that grows well alongside cucumbers is marigolds. These vibrant flowers serve as effective companions for cucumbers due to their ability to repel various pests, such as aphids. By planting marigolds next to cucumbers, gardeners can protect the cucumber leaves from aphid infestations while adding a splash of color to their garden.
What do cucumbers grow best on?
Cucumbers thrive best when they are grown on trellises. By utilizing a trellis, the cucumbers grow in an organized manner, ensuring cleanliness and easy picking. It is important to choose a trellis that is small enough for the tendrils to grab onto, allowing the vines to climb and flourish. Moreover, the compact growth habit of cucumber plants makes them well-suited for cultivating in various containers, opening up possibilities for urban gardening or small gardening spaces.
Do cucumbers need two plants?
No, cucumbers do not necessarily need two plants for pollination since they have both male and female flowers on the same plant. The pollen from a male flower can easily fertilize a female flower on the same plant with the help of a cooperative local bee. While having another cucumber plant nearby for pollination is beneficial, it is not essential as long as there are ample bees to assist in the process.
Can you plant 2 cucumber plants together?
It is not recommended to plant 2 cucumber plants together due to their need for space. Cucumber roots and leaves require ample room for nutrient absorption and air circulation, which helps prevent potential pest and disease infestations. Planting them close together can hinder their growth and increase the risk of issues. To ensure healthy cucumber plants, it is advised to provide each plant with adequate space to thrive independently.