Trellising Cucumbers Saves Space and Increases Yield
Trellised Pickling Cucumber
Trellising cucumbers provides an abundant supply of these crisp, tender fruits in a small space. Not only are the vines grown vertically, saving space, according to Douglas C. Sanders and Jeanine M. Davis horticulturists from North Carolina State University Extension, fruit quality is improved, harvest is extended and yield is greater. But, that's not the only reason to grow cucumbers on a trellis.
Advantages of Trellising Cucumbers
- Controls insect pests and disease by allowing good air circulation.
- May increase pollination.
- Harvesting is quick and easy as the fruits are held above the ground and are easier to find.
- Less damage to vines when harvesting.
- Saves space.
- Improves yield.
Trellises for Cucumbers
Make simple trellises for cucumbers grown in rows in the garden by erecting poles spaced eight to 15 feet apart in the garden and securing vegetable netting or chicken wire to the poles. Secure the poles into the ground to prevent toppling with the weight of the cucumbers. Trellises should be at least six feet tall.
For smaller areas or pots, wire cages, fences or simple trellises for flowers can be used with some success. Stringing wires or twine up the side of a garden wall also works. The key here is to provide a trellis or fence large enough to support the weight of growing cucumber plants.
For smaller areas or pots, wire cages, fences or simple trellises for flowers can be used with some success. Stringing wires or twine up the side of a garden wall also works. The key here is to provide a trellis or fence large enough to support the weight of growing cucumber plants.
Training Cucumbers on a Trellis
Cucumber vines produce tendrils that grasp objects for support. These tendrils hold your cucumber vines securely to the trellis, but they may need a little guidance to get them started. As soon as the cucumbers begin to vine and the first tendrils appear, gently guide the ends of the vines to the trellis. Some may resist your efforts, particularly if the trellis is on the western or southern side of your cucumber bed. Cucumbers naturally grow toward the east in search of the morning sun. Resistant vines can be tied loosely to the trellis with plant ties to get them started up the trellis.
Pruning Cucumbers on a Trellis
According to the North Carolina State University Extension, the first four to six lateral vines that appear off the primary vine should be pruned back to the main vine to increase overall yield. Allow any lateral vines that grow after this point to grow naturally.