Why Did My Cucumber Blow Up Like A Ball?

Question

First time cucumber grower. Started out fine, next time I looked it was blown out of shape.

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Answer 1

Wonderful! There are definitely some cultivars that will do this naturally, though I hardly ever get to see them here. Normally, I see those from stresses. That is a very interesting cultivar, though.

Answer 2

I suspect, either, a watering problem or a nutrient problem. I notice severe discoloration, which can be from overwatering or underwatering and even lack of nutrients. Fortunately, you can test for these parameters.

I notice that there is quite a bit of woodchip material around the plants. Mulch is fine, but if the entire container of soil looks like that, then they are lacking nutrients, for sure. Make sure the soil is nice and rich, and amend with compost or fertilizers if a test shows that nutrients are missing.

As far as watering goes- I would only let it dry out to 3 or 4 inches down before watering, but don't let it get much drier than that. You can test for this as well.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-soil.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/soil-ph-plants.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/testing-moisture-in-plants.htm

Make sure to visit our Youtube channel and look for @gardeningknowhow!

Answer 3

not really a question. you had answered me about my cucumber. I had just found out from my daughters friend that this was a good cumber. it is called a lemon cucumber. I picked it last night cut it open, it was perfect. crispy and a very pleasant taste. I thought I would pass down the information. thank you.