Growing Cucumber

Best Planting Times for Cucumbers in Arkansas

Planting MethodActivityRecommended Dates
Outdoor PlantingIndoor Seed StartingApril 15 – May 15
Transplant OutdoorsMay 25 – June 5
Greenhouse PlantingYear-roundAdjust planting based on temperature control in the greenhouse

Planting Conditions

Cucumber Planting Conditions

Arkansas has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters, perfect for cucumber cultivation. With USDA Hardiness Zones ranging from 6a to 8b, the state offers ideal conditions for growing cucumbers.

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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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Browse Cucumber Seeds on Amazon

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 Arkansas, where the hot climate can sometimes be extreme, a greenhouse provides a controlled environment for optimal cucumber growth. Greenhouses offer protection from intense sunlight, pests, and heavy rain, creating a stable microclimate for your plants to thrive in.

Consider investing in a 10×12 FT Greenhouse priced at $1,199 to ensure your cucumbers flourish in a controlled setting.
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Check the latest price on Amazon.

Fertilizer

For optimal cucumber growth in Arkansas, fertilizing your plants can provide essential nutrients for healthy development. Quality fertilizer replenishes the soil, promotes robust growth, and ensures a bountiful harvest.
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Plant cucumbers outdoors in Arkansas approximately 1-2 weeks after the last spring frost date, ensuring the soil is warm enough for optimal growth.

Average Last Frost Dates for Arkansas’s Major Cities

CityAverage Last Frost Date
Little RockMarch 31
Fort SmithApril 4
FayettevilleApril 10
SpringdaleApril 15
JonesboroApril 8
ConwayApril 5
RogersApril 18
Pine BluffApril 1
BentonvilleApril 20
Hot SpringsApril 2

Disclaimer: Frost dates are average estimates and may vary. Please monitor local forecasts for accurate information before planting.

If you’re looking for more information on planting vegetables in Arkansas, check out these helpful guides:

Have questions about growing tomatoes in Arkansas? Visit our forum to discuss: Growing Tomatoes in Arkansas.

Starting Cucumbers Indoors

In Arkansas, particularly in cities like Little Rock (Zone 7b), start indoor cucumber seed planting between April 1 and May 1. This timing allows for robust seedlings ready for outdoor transplantation by late May to early June, after the last frost date has passed.

Transplanting Cucumber Seedlings

Transplant your cucumber seedlings outdoors from May 25 to June 10, ensuring the soil temperature stays consistently above 60°F. Space the seedlings 12-24 inches apart in rows, with a minimum of 36 inches between rows to support their growth.

General Care and Maintenance

Watering

  • Maintain regular and deep watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Arkansas’ varying climate conditions may require adjusting watering schedules accordingly.
  • Water at the base of the plants to prevent leaf wetness, reducing the chances of fungal infections.

Fertilizing

  • Use a balanced fertilizer during planting and when the first fruits appear. Incorporating compost can improve soil quality and fertility before planting.

Pest and Disease Management

  • Regularly inspect for common pests such as aphids, cucumber beetles, and powdery mildew. Arkansas’ climate may favor certain pests, requiring proactive pest management.
  • Utilize organic or integrated pest control methods to safeguard cucumber plants from pests and diseases.

Harvesting

  • Harvest your cucumbers once they reach the desired size and color. Regular harvesting encourages continuous fruit production and prevents overripe fruits.
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