Pickling cucumbers are small, firm cucumbers that are ideal for making pickles.
They are characterized by their bumpy, rough skin and crunchy texture.
While pickling cucumbers are not difficult to grow, it’s important to choose the right variety for optimal pickling results.
In this article, we will discuss the best cucumbers to grow for pickling, and provide tips on how to grow and care for them.
What are Pickling Cucumbers?
Pickling cucumbers, also known as gherkins, are a type of cucumber that is specifically grown and harvested for pickling.
They are smaller and more uniform in size than slicing cucumbers, and have a firmer texture, which makes them ideal for pickling.
Pickling cucumbers are typically harvested when they are between 2 and 4 inches long, and have a bumpy, rough skin that is ideal for holding onto the brine and spices used in pickling.
Types of Pickling Cucumbers
There are two main types of pickling cucumbers:
- American Pickling Cucumbers: These cucumbers are also known as Kirby cucumbers and are the most popular type of pickling cucumber in the United States. They have a thick, bumpy skin, a crisp texture, and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. American pickling cucumbers are generally harvested when they are 3 to 4 inches long.
- European Pickling Cucumbers: These cucumbers are also known as gherkins and are a popular pickling cucumber in Europe. They are smaller than American pickling cucumbers, usually no more than 2 inches long, and have a thinner skin and a more pronounced flavor. European pickling cucumbers are often pickled whole or sliced lengthwise.
Best Cucumbers for Pickling
When it comes to selecting the best cucumbers for pickling, there are several factors to consider, such as flavor, texture, and size.
Here are some of the best cucumbers to grow for pickling:
- National Pickling Cucumber: This cucumber variety is an excellent all-around pickling cucumber. It has a crisp texture, a slightly sweet flavor, and is resistant to disease. National pickling cucumbers are usually harvested when they are 4 inches long.
- Boston Pickling Cucumber: This variety is another popular pickling cucumber that is easy to grow and has a consistent shape and size. Boston pickling cucumbers have a crunchy texture and a tangy flavor that is ideal for pickling. They are usually harvested when they are 3 to 4 inches long.
- Homemade Pickles Cucumber: This cucumber variety is specifically bred for making pickles. It has a firm texture,
a mild flavor, and is resistant to disease. Homemade pickles cucumbers are usually harvested when they are 3 to 4 inches long.
- County Fair Pickling Cucumber: This variety is a favorite among gardeners for its uniform shape and size, and its excellent pickling qualities. County fair pickling cucumbers have a firm, crunchy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. They are usually harvested when they are 4 to 5 inches long.
- Regal Pickling Cucumber: This cucumber variety is known for its small size and excellent pickling qualities. Regal pickling cucumbers have a crisp texture and a slightly sour flavor that is ideal for making pickles. They are usually harvested when they are 2 to 3 inches long.
How to Grow Pickling Cucumbers
Pickling cucumbers are relatively easy to grow and can be grown in a variety of settings, including gardens, containers, and raised beds.
Here are the steps to growing pickling cucumbers:
- Choose a location: Pickling cucumbers need plenty of sunlight and well-drained soil. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day and has soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Plant the seeds: Plant pickling cucumber seeds in the spring, after the last frost. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 3 inches apart in rows that are 3 feet apart.
- Water regularly: Pickling cucumbers need consistent moisture to grow. Water the plants deeply once a week, or more often during dry spells.
- Fertilize: Pickling cucumbers need regular fertilization to produce a good crop. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 4 weeks.
- Harvest: Pickling cucumbers are usually ready to harvest 50 to 70 days after planting. Harvest the cucumbers when they are between 2 and 4 inches long, and have a firm texture.
Tips for Growing and Caring for Pickling Cucumbers
Here are some additional tips to help you grow and care for pickling cucumbers:
- Provide support: Pickling cucumbers are vine plants and need support to grow properly. Use a trellis or stake to support the plants and keep the cucumbers off the ground.
- Control pests and diseases: Pickling cucumbers are susceptible to pests and diseases such as cucumber beetles and powdery mildew. Use natural pest control methods, such as neem oil or insecticidal soap, and remove any diseased plants immediately.
- Pick regularly: Pickling cucumbers should be picked regularly to encourage more fruit production. Check the plants daily and remove any cucumbers that are ripe.
- Store properly: Pickling cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you are pickling the cucumbers, use them immediately after harvesting for the best results.
Conclusion
Growing your own pickling cucumbers can be a rewarding experience, and choosing the right variety is essential for optimal pickling results.
National, Boston, Homemade, County Fair, and Regal pickling cucumbers are some of the best varieties to grow for pickling.
Follow the tips outlined in this article for growing and caring for pickling cucumbers, and enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh, delicious pickles.
FAQs
- Can I use slicing cucumbers for pickling?
While you can use slicing cucumbers for pickling, they may not have the same firm texture and flavor as pickling cucumbers.
- How many pickling cucumbers can I expect to harvest from one plant?
One pickling cucumber plant can produce anywhere from 10 to 20 cucumbers, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
- Can I grow pickling cucumbers in containers?
Yes, pickling cucumbers can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
- How do I know when my pickling cucumbers are ready to harvest?
Pickling cucumbers are ready to harvest when they are between 2 and 4 inches long, have a firm texture, and a bumpy, rough skin.
- How long does it take to grow pickling cucumbers?
Pickling cucumbers typically take between 50 and 70 days to reach maturity, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
