Sowing Indoors

Sow seeds individually on their edge in small pots of moist seed compost 1cm (1/2in) deep. Place in warmth 20-25-18C (70-75F). As seedlings develop, grow on under cool, light conditions, but not in bright sun.

Planting in a greenhouse
When plants are well established, plant into growing bags, pots or the greenhouse border. Train plants up canes, strings or wires.

Hardening off / planting

Gradually accustom young plants to outside conditions for 2-3 weeks before planting out to their cropping positions when danger of frost has passed.

Again, train plants up canes, wires, or a trellis. Plants left to trail across the ground will produce edible but curled cucumbers.

Aftercare

Keep plants well watered at all times, especially those in a greenhouse. Regular feeds with a liquid fertiliser are beneficial.

Do not remove male flowers (those without a fruit behind them) as these are necessary for pollination of the female flowers.