'National Pickling' cucumber on a ribbon

'National Pickling' cucumber on ribbon (Cucumis sativus) from McKenzie seed company, a classic variety for pickling and abundant harvests

The 'National Pickling' cucumber is a tried and tested, highly popular variety , renowned for its abundant yield and consistent fruit quality . The cucumbers are cylindrical , approximately 15 cm long, and have a dark green skin marked with small black spines . The flesh is crisp, juicy, and sweet , making it ideal for both fresh eating and canning .

Presented on biodegradable seed tape , this format allows for precise and uniform sowing , reduces thinning, and facilitates planting in the garden. As with all tapes, consistent moisture is essential during germination. This variety is safe for bees , attracts pollinators , and has good resistance to several common diseases, including scab , cucumber mosaic virus , and downy mildew .

Companion plants: Beans, Dill, Lettuce, Nasturtium, Oregano, Radish, Sunflower
Enemy plants: —

Spread/carrying: Creeping to climbing
Foliage height: 40 to 60 cm
Seed producer: McKenzie
Seed type: Heirloom
Special features: Seed on tape, ideal for pickles, disease resistant, attracts pollinators

Fruit color: Dark green
Texture/flavor: Crisp, sweet and refreshing flesh
Cold tolerance: Sensitive to frost, warm-season plant

Farming method

Cucumbers do not transplant well and must be sown directly in the ground once the soil has warmed up and all risk of frost has passed . The optimal soil temperature for germination is between 15 and 35°C . Prepare a rich, loose, and well-drained soil .

Make shallow furrows 1.3 cm deep, spaced 1.2 m apart. Tear the seed tape , place it in the furrow, water thoroughly, then cover with about 1.3 cm of soil . Water gently again. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist , but not soggy, throughout germination, which usually takes 8 to 10 days .

Carry out successive sowings every 3 weeks , from spring until mid-July , in order to ensure a continuous supply of cucumbers.

Cucumbers prefer full sun exposure (level 3) and regular watering , equivalent to 2.5 to 5 cm of water per week .

Harvesting and preservation

Harvesting typically begins 55 days after sowing . Pick the young fruits regularly to encourage continuous production and prevent bitterness. Cucumbers are best freshly picked but can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days.

Usage ideas

• Pickled and preserved cucumbers
• Fresh consumption in slices
• Homemade pickles
• Summer salads
• Productive family vegetable gardens

The 'National Pickling' cucumber, grown on a ribbon from McKenzie Seeds, is a must-have for pickling , offering consistent yields , resistance , and ease of cultivation . A reliable and productive variety, it's ideal for gardeners who want to make successful preserves while enjoying fresh, flavorful cucumbers.