Cucumber West Indian Gherkin - 10 Seeds

Also known as burr cucumber, Jerusalem cucumber, and gooseberry gourd.

Perfect for making tiny sweet pickles!

WEST INDIAN GHERKIN (Cucumis anguria) 60-65 days to maturity - Not a true cucumber, this heirloom is originally of African origin, the large vines have leaves very similar to watermelons, while the fruits are short, plump, and prickly. A unique fruit with a distinct gherkin flavor! Great for pickling!

Burr gherkins, also known as West Indian burr gherkins (Cucumis anguria), are one of the old-time favorites among heirloom gardeners because of their productivity and multiple uses in the kitchen plus their pest-free maintenance. Their flavor is mild and resembles cucumbers (when young), without the strong green bitterness of some common cucumbers. You can eat them raw or pickled, or even cooked like zucchini.

Care and Growing Instructions

Cucumber requires warm, well-drained soil high in fertility, with a pH of 6-6.8. Consistent, adequate irrigation is needed to produce an abundant crop. Cucumbers are very sensitive to cold. Make sure both soil and air temperatures have warmed prior to planting. Using plastic mulch and row covers will greatly enhance the vigor and potential yields of cucumbers by providing warmth and insect protection.

In frost areas, sow under cover in seed trays in early spring. Plant out after last frosts. Sow indoors in 16-cell plug trays about 5-6mm deep, 1-2 seeds/cell, 3-4 weeks before transplanting. Keep temperature above 21oC day and 16oC night with heat pad underneath plug trays. Transplant 30cm apart. Do not disturb roots when transplanting.

In frost free areas sow directly into the soil in early spring. However, wait until soil is warm, at least 21oC. Cucumber seeds will not germinate at a soil temperature below 14oC. Sow 2 seeds per 30cm.

Spacing

Single Plants: 60cm each way (minimum)

Rows: 60cm with 60cm row gap (minimum)

Support plants well so they can climb upwards, even when the cucumbers get large. This also protects the cucumbers from slugs. Occasionally a plant can produce very bitter cucumbers so always test a bit before serving to others!

When flowers start forming, feed with slow release potassium-rich organic fertilizer. Fortnightly liquid feed from mid-summer.

Once fruit bearing begins, pick daily. Cut the cucumbers off the plant when they are still quite young, otherwise the skin becomes hard and will need peeling. More cucumbers will then be produced.

Propagation notes will be supplied with a seed packets.