Gherkins (Cucumis sativus) are a lot of fun to grow. These “little” cucumbers grow just the right size for your favorite pickle recipe. They are tender and flavorful, with seeds smaller than a regular-sized cucumber.

As expected, the gherkins grow like normal cucumbers. It is a creeping plant. Pickles will grow well on a cucumber fence or trellis.

People often ask if they can choose a regular cucumber for making pickles. The answer is yes. However, enthusiasts generally prefer special varieties of pickles for their size, flavor, and texture.

Sowing pickle seeds:

You can find special pickle seeds in garden centers, supermarkets or even on the internet, choose the ones that correspond to your region and the time of year you want to plant them. The “Vert Petit de Paris” variety is very good for beginners because it is robust and has good productivity.
Plant in rows or plugs, planting them 2cm deep. When planting in rows, sow seeds 5cm apart. If planting in plugs, plant four to five seeds per plug. After sprouting, save the best two or three seedlings. Cover very lightly with soil.

Water well on the day of planting and if it does not rain, every two or three days until they sprout.

Growing Pickle Plants:

Pickle plants require well-drained soil, sun and warmth. Like other members of the cucurbita family, they are heavy consumers. Therefore, you will need to provide a large amount of nitrogen fertilizer. Switch to a more balanced fertilizer as soon as flowers begin to appear. A regular supply of fertilizer will contribute significantly to the health of the plant and the duration of the harvest.

Also be sure to provide enough water for rapid growth.

Trick :

Pickles grow quickly and are much better when picked before they get too big. Stimulate the development of new fruits by harvesting them regularly. Do not allow them to overripe on the vine or the plants will slow down and stop producing new fruit.

How many days until pickles ripen:

Your pickles will be ready in 50 to 65 days from seed. Once cucumbers begin to ripen, you can usually harvest them for several weeks. They are regular producers.

Insects and pests:

Like all members of the Cucurbita family, the cucumber beetle is a pest to be aware of. Beetles feed on plant leaves and can cause even more damage by spreading diseases from one plant to another.

A variety of other pests can also cause problems, depending on where you live.

Diseases:

As a member of the Cucurbita family, cucumbers are susceptible to the same diseases as squash and squash. These include fungal and bacterial problems.

How to prepare pickles:

Making your own pickles is a simple operation. All you need is salt, water, your pickles, and your favorite pickle spices, like vinegar. When it comes to pickling spices, home gardeners get creative and often use a variety of home-grown herbs to produce many flavors of pickles.