Caring for Cucumbers in the Melon House
In the warmth of late summer, the Melon House feels like a jungle of green. Vines twist overhead, broad leaves catch the light, and glossy cucumbers dangle in the humid air. This week Craig has been giving the crop careful attention, part of the steady routine that keeps the house productive.
Guiding the Vines
Cucumbers grow quickly, their tendrils searching for anything to cling to. The vines are tied back to supports and spread evenly so that air can flow and light can reach every leaf. This keeps the plants balanced and makes harvesting easier. Left untended, the growth could quickly tangle into itself, trapping moisture and creating the perfect conditions for rot.
Keeping the Base Clean
Down at soil level, time is spent clearing away old leaves and checking carefully around each stem. In the still, damp air of a glasshouse, cucumbers are prone to stem rot.
Removing foliage close to the soil and brushing away debris helps the base remain dry and firm. Watering is also done thoughtfully, kept low at the roots rather than splashed across the leaves. A small gap in the mulch ensures moisture stays where it is needed without soaking the crown.
Harvesting with Care
When cucumbers are ready to pick, they are cut cleanly from the vine with sterilised sharp scissors rather than pulled away by hand. This preserves the plant and helps the fruit stay fresh for longer.
Among the mix of varieties, Carmen F1 is especially reliable, producing long, dark green fruits with a crisp bite, while other types add variation in shape and taste.
A Continued Harvest
With vines trained, bases kept tidy, and careful harvesting, the Melon House is set for more weeks of abundance. The steady rhythm of small tasks — tying, tidying, checking — ensures the cucumbers keep thriving in their late-summer jungle, providing a rewarding crop well into the season.
Heligan Gardener's choice, Cucumber Carmen F1 seed packs Available Here