Cucumbers can be a little difficult to grow in pots as their growth requires vertical space. However, this can still be done if you choose a cucumber variety that is not too tall, and supports its vertical growth by providing support posts. Fertile soil that is warm and always kept moist is also an important aspect of caring for cucumber plants in pots.
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Method 1 of 3: Preparation
Step 1. Choose the right type of cucumber
In general, shrub varieties are easier to grow in pots than vine varieties, which require poles to support their extension. Cucumber varieties suitable for growing in pots include salad bush hybrids, bush champions, spacemasters, bush crop hybrids, baby bushes, bush pickles, and potluck.
Step 2. Choose a large pot
Preferably, use a pot that has a diameter and depth of at least 30 cm. In addition, the diameter and depth of the pot should also be the same even if you choose a larger pot.
Step 3. Make sure the pot has water drainage holes
Cucumber is a plant that loves water. However, just like any other plant, too much water can damage the roots. Plastic pots with two water flow holes can be the right choice to maintain the level of soil moisture.
Step 4. Clean the pot
This step is especially important if the pot was previously used to grow other plants. Insect eggs and bacteria hidden in pots can attack cucumber plants if left unchecked. So, clean the pot with soap and hot water before use.
Step 5. Make the right mixture of planting media
A good planting medium can drain water while also containing organic materials that plants need. To make it, mix potting soil, perlite, sphagnum moss, and compost in equal proportions. Do not use garden soil as it may be contaminated with bacteria and pests.
Step 6. Add a good fertilizer to the growing media mix to provide additional nutrients for the plants
A 5-10-5 fertilizer or a 14-14-14 slow-release fertilizer may work well for many varieties of cucumber. Mix the fertilizer into the planting medium according to the instructions for use in the package.
The numbers listed on the fertilizer packaging indicate the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content respectively. Each of these elements will nourish a different part of the plant. Nitrogen will promote leaf growth, phosphorus will promote root and fruit formation, while potassium will strengthen flowers and the plant as a whole. A 5-10-5 fertilizer provides a light dose of nutrients that will increase crop yields. Meanwhile, 14-14-14 fertilizer will maintain the balance of plant health so it is safer to be given in slightly higher levels
Step 7. Prepare the support posts
Cucumber vines need support poles or bars to support their growth. Although bush cucumbers do not need support posts, the use of poles will also benefit their growth. Consider buying a metal cone-shaped pole that is available at most garden supply and hardware stores because this shape can encourage plants to grow taller, and not just serve as a support.
Method 2 of 3: Planting
Step 1. Sow cucumber seeds
In order to grow, cucumbers should be planted in soil that is at least 21 degrees Celsius. That's why in the northern hemisphere cucumbers are usually planted in early July and harvested in September.
Step 2. Install the support posts in the pot
The legs of the support posts should not come into contact with the bottom of the pot. Meanwhile, this pole must be able to stand upright by itself without other supports.
Step 3. Fill the pot with planting media
Insert the planting medium into the pot by stacking it around the support posts. However, don't overcompress it as cucumber roots need loose soil to grow. Leave about 2 cm of free space between the planting medium and the edge of the pot.
Step 4. Check the support posts
Try wiggling this pole around the pot. If the pole can still move a lot, add more planting media to stabilize it.
Step 5. Make a small hole in the center of the pot
The depth of this hole should reach about 1 cm. You can make a hole with your little finger or the tip of a pencil.
Step 6. Insert 5-8 cucumber seeds into the hole
Planting more cucumber seeds will require you to prune the plant as it grows. Meanwhile, planting fewer seeds will reduce your chances of success.
Step 7. Cover the hole with planting media
Do not press the soil into the hole as this may damage the cucumber seeds. So, just sprinkle the planting medium slowly on it.
Step 8. Water the cucumber seeds
Planting media in pots should look completely moist. However, don't over-wet it, as standing water can spread the cucumber seeds.
Step 9. Apply mulch or moss to the surface of the planting medium
A thin layer of mulch should help prevent the potting soil from drying out too quickly.
Step 10. Place the pot in a sunny and sunny place
Cucumbers thrive in warm environments, and sunlight can keep the soil warm.
Method 3 of 3: Caring for and Harvesting Cucumbers
Step 1. Prune the cucumber plant once the seeds have germinated into two leaves
Choose the two tallest young plants and keep them alive. Meanwhile, prune other young plants to ground level, but do not pull them out as this will damage the planting medium and other plants.
Step 2. Prune the cucumber plant and leave only one when it reaches 20-25 cm
Leave taller, stronger plants, but prune other plants to ground level.
Step 3. Place the pot in a sunny spot throughout its growing season
Cucumbers need sun exposure for at least 8 full hours to be able to meet their needs for light and heat.
Step 4. Water the cucumbers daily
If the surface of the planting medium looks dry, you may need to water it again. Water mature plants with enough water so that a small portion of it flows out of the hole in the bottom of the pot. Do not let the planting media in pots dry out because it will inhibit plant growth and make the harvest taste bitter.
Step 5. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a week
Water the soil in the pot first before applying fertilizer. Applying fertilizer to plants in dry conditions can cause problems. Use a water soluble fertilizer and apply as much as recommended on the package.
Step 6. Protect the plant from strong winds
A nice breeze is good for cucumbers. However, strong winds can damage it. For that, place the pot near the wall of the house or fence to reduce the possibility of the plant being blown by strong winds.
Step 7. Watch out for pests
Aphids, caterpillars, mites and cucumber beetles will try to attack your plants. Use neem oil or other organic pesticides to repel and kill these pests.
Step 8. Observe the plant for signs of disease
Fungal wilt and bacterial wilt are very common. There are many antifungal products that can treat fungal attacks on plants. However, it will be more difficult for you to deal with plant diseases caused by bacteria.
Step 9. Harvest the cucumbers while they are still young
Larger cucumbers will taste more bitter. Cut the cucumber stems about 1 cm above them.
