Cucumber, 'Carmen', F1 Hybrid

Germination

Suited to greenhouse cultivation. Sow indoors Feb-May. Sow seeds vertically, 5mm deep, into individual 8cm pots of free draining moist seed compost. Water well and place somewhere warm or propagate 20-25°C. Germination takes 7-21 days. Protect seedlings from direct sunlight to prevent scorching. When plants have 3-4 leaves transplant to 12cm pots. Reduce temp. to 15°C and grow on. Keep compost moist not wet. When well grown plant. In a greenhouse allow 2 plants per growbag , individual large pots or directly into the greenhouse border. Prefers rich soil with plenty of organic matter.

Growing

This variety is suited to greenhouse cultivation. Water regularly and thoroughly. The greenhouse may require shading. This plant enjoys a humid atmosphere so regularly spray or dampen down surfaces. Will benefit from a trellis or net to climb on. Pinch out at the growing point when the plant reaches the top of its support. Pinch out side shoots when fruit begins to develop, leaving 2 leaves after each fruit.

Cultivation

Fruits grow up to 40cm long. Harvest regularly to encourage new growth. Pick fruits while young and tender, older fruits can become bitter. Best harvested in the morning when cool.