Growing Cucumber

Best Planting Times for Cucumbers in West Virginia

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingMay 1 – June 1
Transplant OutdoorsJune 15 – July 1
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Cucumber Planting Conditions

West Virginia’s climate offers moderate temperatures and consistent rainfall suitable for cucumber growth. With fertile soil and adequate sunlight, cucumbers thrive well in the state.

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Useful Tools for Starting Cucumbers Indoors

Using the right tools can save you time and increase your success rate.

Seeds

Quality seeds lead to better germination and healthier plants. Starting with high-quality seeds gives your cucumbers the best chance to thrive from the very beginning.
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Planting Trays

Planting trays help you organize your seedlings and ensure they have enough space to grow before you transplant them outdoors. This makes the process more efficient and increases the chances of strong, healthy plants.
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Grow Lights

Grow lights are essential if you don’t have enough natural sunlight. They provide your seedlings with the light they need to grow strong and healthy, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
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Seed Starting Soil

Using light, fine soil specifically designed for seed starting helps young roots establish quickly and promotes healthy growth. It’s an easy way to give your seedlings the best start possible.
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Greenhouse Growing

In West Virginia, where temperature fluctuations can occur, providing a greenhouse environment offers stability and protection for cucumber plants. Greenhouses allow for extended growing seasons and safeguard plants from adverse weather conditions, leading to successful yields.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your cucumbers thrive in a controlled environment.
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Fertilizer

Supplementing with fertilizer in West Virginia enhances cucumber growth, ensuring robust and productive harvests. Nutrient-rich fertilizer replenishes the soil and supports strong plant development.
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Plant cucumbers outdoors in West Virginia around 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil has warmed up adequately for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for West Virginia’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
CharlestonApril 25
HuntingtonApril 28
ParkersburgApril 29
MorgantownMay 1
WheelingApril 25
WeirtonApril 25
FairmontApril 29
BeckleyMay 5
ClarksburgApril 29
South CharlestonApril 27

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates, and actual conditions may vary. It is recommended to monitor local forecasts and adapt planting decisions accordingly.

Other planting guides for West Virginia:

Broccoli Planting in West Virginia

Pumpkin Planting in West Virginia

Any questions on growing cucumbers? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Cucumbers.

Starting Cucumbers Indoors

In West Virginia (Zone 6), begin indoor cucumber seed starting between April 15 and May 15. This timeline ensures healthy seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation starting from late May to early June once the risk of frost has passed.

Transplanting Cucumber Seedlings

Transplant cucumber seedlings outdoors from May 25 to June 10, ensuring the soil has warmed above 60°F consistently. Space the seedlings 12-24 inches apart in rows with at least 36 inches between rows for optimal growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Provide consistent and deep watering to maintain evenly moist soil. West Virginia’s varying climate necessitates monitoring soil moisture levels for proper hydration.
  • Water at the base of plants to avoid leaf wetness, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Fertilizing

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and when the first fruits start forming. Incorporating compost before planting can enhance soil fertility and structure.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly monitor for common pests like aphids, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew. West Virginia’s humid summers can create optimal conditions for pest infestations.
  • Implement organic or integrated pest management methods to protect cucumber plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest cucumbers when they reach the desired size and color. Regular harvesting promotes continuous fruiting and prevents over-mature fruits.
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