Marketmore 76 Cucumber Seeds

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 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.

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.

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.