Marketmore 76 Cucumber Seeds
Marketmore 76 Cucumber Seeds
The Marketmore 76 cucumber variety excels in retaining its vibrant taste and appearance, even during the peak of summer heat. Known for its prolific yield and adaptability, this slicing cucumber boasts impressive disease resistance. Its fruits are consistently uniform, straight, and cylindrical, measuring around 20 cm in length without any stippling. This variety is fortified against common cucumber afflictions such as Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV), Downy Mildew (DM), Powdery Mildew (PM), and Scab, requiring approximately 68 days to reach maturity.
The origins of cucumbers trace back more than 3,000 years to the Himalayan Mountains of India, from where they spread to Greece and Rome. It is believed that the Romans were instrumental in introducing cucumbers across Europe. In the Americas, cucumbers gained popularity through the efforts of Spanish explorers and other colonists, becoming a staple crop among Native American communities.
In contemporary times, cucumbers remain an integral component of Russian and Asian culinary traditions, with Asia hosting the most diverse varieties in terms of color and shape. This is a testament to the vegetable's enduring legacy in its region of origin. The development of the Marketmore series, with Marketmore 76 as a standout example, was spearheaded by Dr. Henry Munger at Cornell University in New York. This development marked a significant advancement in the cultivation of cucumbers, highlighting the variety's robust genetic design and adaptability.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
For sowing, since cucumbers are sensitive to transplanting, it's best to start them either in peat pots or directly in the garden. Begin indoors around two weeks before the last frost, planting 3-4 seeds about 1.3 cm deep in each pot, with air temperatures maintained at least 27°C. Once each plant has two or three leaves, thin them by cutting all but the strongest seedling. Acclimate the seedlings by placing them outside during the day. Plant them in the garden no less than a week after the last frost, when air temperatures are steadily between 18°C and 24°C. For mound planting, use three seedlings or 7-8 seeds per mound, with mounds spaced 120-150 centimeters apart. If preferring rows, space seedlings 30 cm apart or sow 5 seeds within 30 cm and thin as necessary. Cucumbers require warmth and are vulnerable to frost. Provide a trellis for space efficiency and straighter fruits, though vines will also spread on the ground. Companion planting with corn benefits both, as cucumbers can climb the cornstalks, and planting cucumbers with radishes may deter cucumber beetles. Avoid planting near potatoes or aromatic herbs.
For growing, the Marketmore cucumber shows strong disease resistance. Consistent moisture is crucial; keep the soil evenly wet. Once vines are established, use mulch or straw to retain soil moisture and control weeds. Be vigilant for cucumber beetles and remove them promptly.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Harvesting should be done when this slightly tapered, black-spined cucumber variety is ideal for both pickling and fresh consumption. Harvest regularly for a continuous yield. A yellowing at the blossom end signals the cucumber is beyond its prime. Store cucumbers in the refrigerator for extended freshness.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
For seed saving, cucumbers, which have both male and female flowers on the same plant, can cross-pollinate with other cucumber varieties, so isolate them to maintain purity. Let the cucumbers overripen until they soften and the skin changes color, which may take up to five weeks. Cure them off the vine in a dry, cool place for two weeks. Extract seeds by cutting the cucumbers open and scooping the seeds into a bowl. Ferment seeds in water at 32°C for 24-36 hours, stirring twice daily. Good seeds will sink; remove debris and hollow seeds by adding water and stirring. Dry the good seeds on a flat surface for about two weeks, then store in a cool, dry place for up to eight years.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Direct sow or start in peat pots to avoid transplant shock.
Blooming Season: Summer
Planting Season: Late spring after last frost when soil temperature is at least 16°C.
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Cucumis sativus; USDA zones 4-11.
Sunlight Required/Height: Full sun/ vines can grow up to 2 meters with support.
Shelf Life After Test Date: Seeds are viable for up to 8 years if stored in a cool, dry place.
Seed Type: Heirloom, non-GMO
Soil Type: Prefers well-drained loamy soil but adaptable to clay or sandy soils.