Cucumber is a fast-growing, high-value vegetable crop that thrives with modern precision farming, smart irrigation, and greenhouse technology. With advanced production techniques, farmers can achieve higher yields, better fruit quality, and year-round cultivation.
Ideal Climate & Soil Conditions
Temperature: Best growth at 18°C to 30°C. Below 12°C slows germination, while above 35°C affects fruit setting.
Rainfall: Requires 1,000–1,500 mm annually, but controlled irrigation is preferred.
Soil: Sandy loam to loamy soil, well-drained, with a pH of 6.0–7.5.
Sunlight: Prefers 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Seed Selection & Nursery Management
Hybrid & disease-resistant varieties like Poinsett 76, Malini, and Swarna Ageti.
Polyhouse nurseries & seedling trays ensure uniform germination.
Drip irrigation & mist systems maintain ideal moisture.
Land Preparation & Transplanting
Raised bed & plastic mulching reduce weeds and conserve moisture.
Spacing: Row-to-row: 1.5m, Plant-to-plant: 50-60 cm.
Trellising (vertical farming) enhances airflow and reduces disease risks.
Smart Irrigation & Water Management
Drip irrigation with fertigation saves 50% water and improves nutrient uptake.
Mulching & soil moisture sensors prevent over-irrigation.
Fertilization & Nutrient Management
NPK Requirements:
- Nitrogen (N): Boosts vegetative growth.
- Phosphorus (P): Enhances root strength and flowering.
- Potassium (K): Improves fruit size and taste.
Pest & Disease Control
Major pests: Aphids, whiteflies, cucumber beetles.
Common diseases: Powdery mildew, downy mildew, bacterial wilt.
Greenhouse & Hydroponic Cucumber Farming
Polyhouse & greenhouse technology allows off-season production.
Hydroponics (Soilless farming) increases yield by 50%.
Harvesting & Post-Harvest Technology
Harvesting begins in 40-50 days, with fruits picked every 2-3 days.
Cold storage at 10-12°C preserves freshness.