Trellising Cucumbers Saves Space and Increases Yield

For many gardeners, trellising cucumbers provides an abundant supply of these crisp, tender fruits in a small space. Not only are the vines grown vertically, saving space, according to Douglas C. Sanders and Jeanine M. Davis horticulturists from North Carolina State University Extension, fruit quality is improved, harvest is extended and yield is greater. But, that's not the only reason to grow cucumbers on a trellis.

Advantages of trellising cucumbers

-- Controls insect pests and disease by allowing good air circulation.

-- May increase pollination.

-- Harvesting is quick and easy as the fruits are held above the ground and are easier to find.

-- Less damage to vines when harvesting.

-- Saves space.

-- Improves yield.

Selecting trellises for cucumbers

Make simple trellises for cucumbers grown in rows in the garden by erecting poles spaced eight to 15 feet apart in the garden. Secure the poles into the ground to prevent toppling with the weight of the cucumbers. Although you can certainly run your own wires or garden twine between the poles to create a trellis, commercial fencing or chicken wire is inexpensive and easy to install by stapling to the post. Trellises should be at least six feet tall.

For smaller areas or pots, wire cages, fences or simple trellises for flowers can be used with some success. Stringing wires or twine up the side of a garden wall also works. The key here is to provide a trellis or fence large enough to support the weight of growing cucumber plants.

Planting cucumbers for trellising

Plant cucumbers in the spring once the danger of frost has passed in your area and the soil has warmed. Cucumbers prefer soil temperatures above 50 degree Fahrenheit and air temperatures between 77 and 85. Place seedlings 2 to 4 inches from the base of the trellis.

Training cucumbers on a trellis

Cucumber vines produce tendrils that grasp objects for support. These tendrils hold your cucumber vines securely to the trellis, but they may need a little guidance to get them started. As soon as the cucumbers begin to vine and the first tendrils appear, gently guide the ends of the vines to the trellis. Some may resist your efforts, particularly if the trellis is on the western or southern side of your cucumber bed. Cucumbers naturally grow toward the east in search of the morning sun. Resistant vines can be tied loosely to the trellis with plant ties to get them started up the trellis.

Pruning cucumber vines

According to the North Carolina State University Extension, the first four to six lateral vines that appear off the primary vine should be pruned back to the base to increase overall yield. Allow any lateral vines that grow after this point to grow.

Harvesting cucumbers on trellises

Slip the cucumber from the vine by grasping the cucumber in one hand and the vine in another and twist gently. Avoid tugging or pulling as this may damage the vine. Some prefer to clip the cucumber free of the vine.

Cucumbers may be the main ingredient in pickles and relish and the makings of dainty cucumber sandwiches -- but the best way to eat a fresh garden cucumber is right from the vine. Harvest when they are young and tender and eat them "peelings and all" for a special treat unmatched by store-bought cucumbers.

More work by this contributor:
Rustic Grapevine and Cedar Garden Trellis Adds Charm to Any Garden
DIY Garden Trellis from Found Objects: Free or Nearly Free Resources at Your Fingertips
DIY Hummingbird Feeders from Recycled Bottles