What's better: trellis or ground for cucumbers?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Trellis and ground growing methods affect the cucumbers you produce. Trellises provide enhanced airflow and sunlight exposure to the plant. Ground planting works well for bush varieties in large gardens. I have tried both methods with many garden styles.
Vertical systems provide unique benefits for most cucumber varieties. Trellises lift the fruit off the wet soil, thereby averting some top rot-type pathogens and creating a less favorable, stagnant environment for bottom rot pathogens. Trellis systems create orderly growth patterns, making it easier to inspect for pests. Harvesting is easily done without bending over or rummaging through dense plant material. My overall harvest improved by 40% after utilizing a vertical system.
Structural Setup
- Install 6-8 foot tall supports before planting
- Angle trellises at 75° for optimal sun exposure
- Space plants 12-18 inches apart along supports
- Use UV-resistant materials for durability
Vine Management
- Begin training when vines reach 6 inches long
- Weave tendrils through openings every 2 days
- Prune lateral shoots to focus energy on fruiting
- Secure heavy fruits with soft fabric slings
Ground planting is appropriate for specific garden circumstances. Ground planting works best with bush varieties planted in a raised bed with ample space. Use a heavy mulch to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Avoid planting in the same space every year to avoid disease buildup. I only use ground planting with quick salad cucumber varieties.
Both approaches have similar care schedules. Water trellised crops by the soil using drip irrigation. Check for pests in ground-planted cucumbers, such as cutworms. Spray with organic fungicides preventively in damp conditions. Harvest crops consistently to prolong fruiting.
Read the full article: 6 Best Ways How to Grow Cucumbers Vertically
