Cucumber

INTRODUCTION- Cucumbers thrive in hydroponics due to their rapid growth rate and desires for warmth, moisture, and nutrients which are effectively filled in the hydroponic system. They are one of the highest yielding plants commonly grown in a hydroponic setup Cucumbers thrive in hydroponics due to their rapid growth rate and desires for warmth, moisture, and nutrients which are effectively filled in the hydroponic system. They are one of the highest yielding plants commonly grown in a hydroponic setup Hydroponics system is a technique of growing plants without soil and the limitations of space and climate. In traditional farming, plants depend on soil to obtain all nutrients needed for their growth. In contrast, a hydroponic system provides all of these nutrients without involving sunlight, soil, extra labor, allowing farmers to benefit from efficiencies and to reap large produce yields. Cucumbers thrive in the hydroponics system due to their rapid growth rate and requirements for warmth, moisture, and nutrients. They are one of the highest yielding plants generally grown in greenhouses.

Some Important Factors Considered in Hydroponic Cucumber Farming;

• pH range 5.5-6.0 for optimal results.
• EC 1.7-2.5
• PPM 1190-1750
• Cucumbers prefer moderate humidity
• Good airflow is necessary for plant vigour
• 26°C maximum is best for accelerated growth. Night temperatures should be no less than 18°C.
• 8-12 hours of light daily optimal – a minimum of 8 hours.

Several important factors have to be considered when choosing fertilizers and preparing a hydroponic nutrient solution for Cucumber farming;

• Water quality – salinity, the concentration of potentially harmful elements such as sodium, chlorides, and boron;
• Required nutrients and concentrations in the hydroponic nutrient solution;
• Nutrient balance;
• The pH of the hydroponic nutrient solution and its effect on the uptake of nutrients by plants.

Planting Cucumbers in a Hydroponic System

Germination periods in Cucumbers vary depending on the variety and conditions. Temperature levels around 26°C are best for accelerated growth. Seedlings, once they emerge should be hardened off with a gentle breeze and temperatures around 22 to 23°C before planting permanently in a hydroponic system. The minimum night temperatures should be no less than 18°C. European Cucumbers are spaced at 5-6 feet between rows by 16 inches between plants. Bush varieties can be planted closer together always consult the seed pack, as plant spacing varies from cultivar to cultivar.Cucumber seeds can be sown into individual cell pots with perlite or vermiculite. Oasis Cubes also work well for seed starting, Blocks of rock wool are also suitable, and coco coir will suffice. The seed must be placed deep enough to prevent it from drying out; this will also help the seed coat to release as it germinates.

Presoak all media like Rockwool, vermiculite, etc in pH balanced water for at about 45 minutes before using it. Dry media will soak up moisture from the roots. Use straight water [pH balanced is preferable] for the first few days following seed germination until the embryonic leaves have fully emerged. By the 3rd or 4th day, use only a half-strength nutrient solution for about a week before graduating to full strength solution.