Unwins Cucumber Merlin Seeds

Level fill a module tray with seed compost, firming with the base of another tray. Water well. Sow seeds individually, on edge, pushing into compost 1-2cm deep. Place in the warmth, 20-25°C. Cover with cling film. Keep moist.

Remove cling film as soon as shoots appear. Keep seedlings in a light position, but shade from direct sunlight. When large enough to handle, transplant into 8cm pots of potting compost. Grow on in a minimum temperature of 12-15°C.

Plant 60cm apart into a greenhouse border, grow bags, or 30cm diameter pots once a minimum temperature of 12°C can be maintained. Water regularly, especially in hot weather and use a tomato food to promote fruiting. If male flowers form (those without a swelling behind them), remove them as soon as they are noticed. Train up a wire or cane and pinch out growing tips when the plants are as tall as space allows; pinch out sideshoot tips a couple of leaves past a female flower (if flowerless, pinch out sideshoot tips at 60cm).

Plants may also be grown in pots on a patio or other warm, sheltered spot, from June.

Check plants frequently and harvest fruits before they become overripe. Regular picking will also encourage more fruits to form.