Developed by the National Pickle Packers Association and Michigan Agriculture Experiment Station, the National Pickling Cucumber is an outstanding heirloom with thick tips and delightful flavor. The cucumber, created to fill jars completely, has blunt, slightly tapered ends, and dark green with black spines. Ideal for gherkins at 2-3 inches or slicers at 4 inches. Full maturity at 6 inches. Offers consistent heavy yields and resistance to scab and cucumber mosaic virus. A timeless favorite for your vegetable patch. Maturing in 52 days.

Sustainably grown in 2.75″ pots

Selecting the Right Location

Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. National Pickling Cucumbers thrive in warm, sunny conditions. Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0 and 7.0 is ideal for optimal growth. Consider providing support for the cucumber vines to climb. Trellises or cages promote better air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

Planting National Pickling Cucumber Starts

Wait until all danger of frost has passed before transplanting your National Pickling Cucumber into the garden. Cucumbers are sensitive to cold temperatures and thrive in warm soil. Space the plants adequately apart in rows, allowing room for the vines to spread and ensuring good air circulation. Plant the starts at the same depth as they were in their containers, gently firming the soil around the roots. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.

Watering and Fertilizing

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Cucumbers have shallow roots and require regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliar diseases. Water at the base of the plants to deliver moisture directly to the roots. Fertilize National Pickling Cucumber starts with a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen to promote healthy foliage growth. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully to avoid over-fertilizing.

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor your cucumber plants regularly for signs of pests such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and spider mites. Early detection is key to preventing infestations. Consider using natural pest control methods such as companion planting with marigolds or using insecticidal soaps and neem oil sprays. Keep the garden clean and free of debris to reduce the risk of disease. Good air circulation around the plants also helps prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.

Harvesting National Pickling Cucumbers

National Pickling Cucumbers are typically ready for harvest when they are of a suitable size for pickling, usually around 2 to 4 inches in length. Harvest cucumbers regularly to encourage continued fruit production. Leaving cucumbers on the vine for too long can result in oversized fruits with tough skins and seeds. Use sharp scissors or garden shears to cut the cucumbers from the vine, taking care not to damage the plant. Harvest cucumbers early in the morning when they are at their peak freshness and flavor. Store harvested cucumbers in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life.

Growing National Pickling Cucumber starts can be a rewarding experience for gardeners of all skill levels. By following these simple tips and guidelines, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious homemade pickles all season long.