Cucumbers

The cucumber, or "cuke", is 90% water. That's why it's so refreshing. If you've never put cucumber slices on puffy eyelids, try it next time your eyes are bothering you. This warm season vegetable is not only refreshing and delicious, it is also an eco-cleaner, natural shoe polish, spa treatment, squeaky hinge silencer, breath refresher, and more.

Cucumbers are a fast-growing, easy-to-grow vegetable. Plant them only after there is no more danger of frost, in an area with full sun. Most cucumbers are vining plants and tend to take up a large amount of space. If space is a concern, they may be grown vertically with a trellis, fence or cage. Plant seeds 1 inch deep, about 6-10 inches apart, along fence, trellis or other support.

Bush-type cucumber varieties are ideal for small, 18-24 inch diameter containers. Plant a couple of seeds per pot. Water your cukes consistently and add mulch to hold in soil moisture.

Harvest your cukes before they get too big. Slicing cucumbers will be ready to harvest when they are about 6-8 inches long. Harvest pickling cucumbers at 2 inches long, and dills at 4-6 inches long.