English Telegraph Cucumber Seeds, OSC

English Telegraph Cucumber Seeds, OSC

A timeless classic also known as the ‘English Cucumber,’ English Telegraph has been a favourite since at least 1885. This heirloom variety produces a straight, slim slicing cucumber with a very mild flavour. The fruit averages 35 cm long and is perfect for salads and sandwiches. For your best chance at straight fruit, grow this variety on a trellis or netting. It’s a wonderful choice for those with a greenhouse, as it performs exceptionally well indoors.

Quick Seed Details

• Type: Heirloom Slicing Cucumber
• Fruit: Straight, slim, averages 35 cm long
• Features: Very mild flavour; also known as the ‘English Cucumber’; excellent for greenhouses.

What you need to know to Plant & Grow

Cucumbers grow best in a rich, warm, sandy loam soil. Before planting, work large amounts of garden compost or composted manure into the native soil, about 30 cm deep. Wait until the soil has reached a temperature of at least 18°C before planting, as cooler soil will reduce germination and can cause the seed to rot.

Planting: Mound the soil into hills about 15-20 cm high and 30-60 cm across. Space the hills about 120 cm apart. Sow 6 to 8 seeds 2 cm deep in each hill, then after the seeds sprout, thin to 3 or 4 plants per hill. It is highly recommended to train these vines to grow vertically on a trellis or netting to ensure straight fruit.

Care: Protect the plants from any late spring or early summer frosts. Keep the plants evenly watered throughout the growing season, as even soil moisture is very important to prevent bitterness. Harvest the fruit continuously to encourage further production. To prevent damage to the vine, harvest by cutting the fruit with a sharp knife, and do not pull or twist them off. Germination occurs in 7-10 days.

Approximately 20 seeds per packet (35 seeds per gram)

*Subject to availability*