Cultivation

Cucumber Irrigation

Cucumis sativus L.

The cucumber has a poorly developed root system with low suction power, which necessitates maintaining high soil and air humidity for stable fruit production. Failure to adhere to the water regime triggers the accumulation of cucurbitacins, which cause fruit bitterness, and shifts the sex of the fl…

In the reference 24 varieties crop Cucumber, where this is mentioned in the description.

The cucumber is characterized by intensive moisture transpiration due to its large leaf canopy and high dependence on the moisture level in the topsoil, where the majority of its root system is located. Prior to the onset of fruiting, soil moisture should be maintained at 65–75% of field capacity (FC), and during the period of active fruiting, it should be increased to 85–90% FC.

The plant prefers frequent, light waterings with water at a temperature of at least 20–22°C, as the use of cold water inhibits nutrient uptake. The optimal air humidity for the crop is 80–90%, and moisture deficits lead to stunted growth, smaller fruits, and reduced yields.

Excess moisture suppresses the root system due to oxygen deficiency, which promotes the development of rot processes. In commercial cultivation, drip irrigation is recognized as the most effective method, ensuring precise water delivery directly to the root zone.

General information about the subject — on the page Irrigation.

Sources8

Varieties of Cucumber mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.