"Jibai Shimoshirazu" Cucumber

Cucumis sativus

Sweet and delicious with outstanding flavor. Jibai Shiroshimazu is a Japanese heirloom maturing to an impressive 14 inches long. Naturally resistant to powdery mildew and bred to thrive in hot and humid summers.

Growing Instructions: 

Sow indoors 2 to 3 weeks before setting out after last frost or direct seed after last frost. You may want to plant two plantings of cucumbers a month apart to extend cucumber season.

Space plants 8" apart. If allowing vines to grow on the ground, give 36" between rows. We recommend trellising cucumbers for better fruit quality and plant health. Trellising also saves space to plant other crops where vines would otherwise occupy.

Amend soil with good compost. We also recommend a fall or spring cover crop of peas or another annual legume to fix nitrogen in the soil where the cucumbers will be planted.

Mulching cucumbers is a good idea, however mulching in mid spring will keep soil temperature cooler and may slow growth. Mulching can be done once soil has warmed. Make sure soil pH is between 5.8 and 7.0. If plant needs a growing boost, water with nitrogen tea or compost tea a few times. If trace minerals are inadequate, sprinkle a small amount of woodash in each planting hole.

Harvest:

Mature Jibai Shiroshimazu cucumbers reach 14 inches in length. Harvest at full length or just shy, depending on preference.