How to grow Cucumber Marketmore Seeds
Starting Seeds Indoors (Optional):
For an earlier harvest, you can give your Marketmore seeds a head start by planting them indoors: Begin indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected frost in your area. Sow seeds 1cm deep, placing 3-4 seeds per pot. Water gently and keep the soil moist. Once seedlings have their first true leaves, thin to the strongest plant per pot. Before transplanting outdoors, gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions for a week.
Direct Sowing Outdoors:
If you prefer waiting for warmer weather, you can sow seeds directly in your garden. Wait until all danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 21°C. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soil with compost beforehand. Create shallow furrows spaced 3-4 feet apart. Sow 3-4 seeds per furrow and cover lightly with soil. Water gently. Once seedlings emerge, thin to the strongest plant.
Ongoing Care:
For healthy plants and a bountiful harvest, water regularly, especially during hot weather, to maintain consistent moisture in the soil. Avoid soaking the foliage. Provide a trellis, fence, or other support for climbing vines. Pick cucumbers when they reach your desired size while the skin is smooth and firm. Regular harvesting encourages more fruit production.
Tips: Marketmore cucumbers benefit from consistent moisture. Mulch around the base of plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regularly removing spent flowers (deadheading) can also encourage continued flowering and fruit production.