Cucumber Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore'
ABOUT
Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore', commonly known as the cucumber, is characterized by its sprawling, vining growth habit often necessitating support for optimal growth, although it can also trail along the ground. This variety is known for its prolific fruit production of straight, dark green cucumbers that typically grow to a standard length suitable for fresh eating or pickling. The leaves of the cucumber plant are broad and somewhat triangular with a rough, hairy texture and a deep green color, providing a lush appearance to the plant. Its stems are also covered in fine hairs and bear clinging tendrils that help it climb and support itself if given a structure to grasp. The cucumber fruits of the 'Marketmore' exhibit a classic cylindrical shape, tapering slightly at the ends. The skin is usually smooth with a slight texture, and it sometimes features very fine, lighter colored spines that can be easily rubbed off. Inside, the fruit is pale green with a crisp texture and contains a central seed cavity filled with edible seeds surrounded by a gelatinous substance. The cucumber's flowers are a bright yellow and tend to be relatively small. These blossoms are affixed to the plant on short stems from the leaf axils and are a necessary precursor to the fruit. Overall, the cucumber plant portrays a vigorous and healthy green aspect, with fruit that is refreshing in taste and appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cucurbitaceae.
Synonyms
Cucumber, Slicing Cucumber, Garden Cucumber.
Common names
Cucumis sativus.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as cucumber is generally not toxic to humans. However, cucumbers can contain cucurbitacins, which are bitter compounds that can cause digestive issues if consumed in large quantities. Most commercially cultivated cucumbers, including 'Marketmore', have been bred to have lower levels of cucurbitacins. Symptoms of cucurbitacin poisoning can include stomach pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. If a person were to ingest a cucumber with a high level of cucurbitacins, the bitter taste would likely deter them from eating much.
To pets
Cucumber, the most common name for Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore', is not toxic to most pets. Pets can usually eat small amounts of cucumber without any adverse effects. However, as with humans, cucumbers contain cucurbitacins, and in rare cases, a cucumber with a high content of these compounds could cause mild gastrointestinal distress, such as diarrhea or vomiting, if ingested by a pet. But this is unlikely with commercial varieties that are bred for low cucurbitacin levels. Always introduce any new food to a pet's diet in moderation and observe for any adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters)
Spread
3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-9
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Nutritional Value: The cucumber is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.
- Hydration: Cucumbers contain a high water content, which can help keep the body hydrated.
- Supports Digestion: Cucumbers contain fiber, which aids in maintaining a healthy digestive tract.
- Garden Biodiversity: Growing cucumbers can increase the biodiversity of your garden, providing habitat for beneficial insects.
- Soil Improvement: As cucumbers grow, their roots can help to break up the soil, improving its structure over time.
- Shade Provider: Large cucumber plants can provide shade for smaller, more delicate herbs and vegetables.
- Easy to Grow: 'Marketmore' cucumbers are known for being hardy and easy to grow, making them suitable for novice gardeners.
- Continuous Yield: This variety of cucumber can produce fruit throughout the growing season if maintained properly.
- Culinary Versatility: Cucumbers can be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads to sandwiches or as a garnish.
- Pollinator Attraction: Cucumber flowers can attract pollinators like bees, which are important for the ecosystem and other plants in the garden.
Medical Properties- Hydration: Cucumber is high in water content, which helps maintain hydration and can indirectly support kidney function.
- Skin care: Cucumber is commonly used for its cooling and soothing effects on the skin, potentially reducing swelling and irritation.
- Vitamin K: Cucumbers contain Vitamin K, which is important for bone health.
- Antioxidant Properties: Cucumbers contain antioxidants, like flavonoids and tannins, which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases by preventing free radical damage.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Skin Soother: Cucumber slices can be placed on the eyes during a spa treatment to help reduce puffiness and soothe tired eyes.
- Cleaning Stainless Steel: The juice of cucumbers can be used to remove tarnish and bring back the shine to stainless steel appliances and fixtures.
- Anti-fogging for Mirrors: Rubbing a cucumber slice on a mirror can prevent it from fogging up after a hot shower.
- Shoe Polish: The skin of cucumbers contains an oil that can be used to shine and waterproof leather shoes.
- Natural Pest Control: Cucumber peels contain compounds that can repel various garden pests, making them a natural pest control solution.
- Homemade Stencils: Thinly sliced cucumbers can be used as a stamp or to create natural shapes for crafting and painting.
- Eliminate Squeaky Hinges: Rubbing cucumber on squeaky hinges can act as a makeshift lubricant in a pinch.
- Room Freshener: Placing bowls of sliced cucumber around the home can absorb odors and freshen the air.
- Plant Dyes: Cucumber skins can be boiled to produce a light green dye for fabrics or Easter eggs.
- DIY Cucumber Ribbon Salad: Thin ribbons of cucumber can be used in creative salad presentations to add a unique visual element to dishes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe cucumber is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe cucumber is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Fertility: Cucumbers, such as the Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore', often represent fertility due to their prolific nature and the rapid way they can grow and spread in suitable conditions.
- Healing: Cucumbers have hydrating properties and are often used in skin care for their cooling and soothing effects, symbolizing healing and restoration.
- Renewal: With their high water content and crisp texture, cucumbers can symbolize freshness and renewal, much like the fresh start of a new growing season.
- Prosperity: In some cultures, the abundant yield of cucumber plants can represent prosperity and the idea of reappearance or continuous supply.
WaterCucumis sativus 'Marketmore', commonly known as cucumber, requires consistent moisture, particularly during fruit set and fruit development. Water deeply at least once a week with at least one inch of water, which equates to about 0.6 gallons per square foot of soil. The best method is to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During hot, dry weather, you may need to water more frequently, possibly every other day, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering once fruits begin to mature to avoid overly watery cucumbers.
LightCucumber plants thrive in full sunlight, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. For best results, place them in a spot where they'll receive plenty of morning light, which is less intense and helps dry dew from leaves, reducing disease risk. These plants do not perform well in shady areas, and insufficient light can lead to poor fruit development.
TemperatureCucumber plants grow best in warm conditions, with the ideal temperatures ranging between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They should not be planted outdoors until the soil temperature has reached at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit and the danger of frost has passed. Cucumbers can tolerate a maximum temperature of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit but may suffer if the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which can impact growth and fruiting.
PruningPruning cucumbers help in increasing air circulation and reducing the risk of disease. Remove any dead or yellow leaves, and any fruits that are misshapen or over-mature to encourage new growth. Prune cucumbers regularly, checking every one to two weeks. The best time for pruning is when the plants are dry to avoid spreading plant diseases.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe cucumber plant, commonly known as 'Marketmore', thrives best in a well-draining soil mix with a pH level of about 6.0 to 6.8. A recommended soil mix for this plant is one part garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part sand or perlite to ensure good drainage.
RepottingCucumbers, such as the 'Marketmore', do not commonly require repotting as they are annual plants. However, they should be planted in fresh soil at the start of each growing season to ensure optimal growth.
Humidity & MistingCucumbers like ‘Marketmore’ prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally around 60-70%, for optimal growth. They thrive in warm, humid outdoor environments or greenhouses.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow 'Marketmore' cucumbers indoors with ample light and trellising support.
Outdoor
Plant ‘Marketmore’ cucumbers in warm soil, full sun, and use trellises.
Hardiness zone
4-11 USDA
Life cycleThe cucumber plant 'Marketmore' begins its life as a seed which germinates in warm soil, usually when temperatures are consistently above 65°F. Following germination, the seedling emerges with cotyledons (seed leaves) before true leaves develop, entering the vegetative growth stage. As the plant matures, it develops a vining habit, which can be supported with trellises if vertical growth is desired. Following vegetative growth, the plant enters the flowering stage, producing both male and female flowers that rely on pollinators like bees to transfer pollen and facilitate fertilization. Once pollinated, the female flowers develop into cucumbers, which are harvested when they reach the desired size and before the seeds inside fully mature. After fruit production, the plant will eventually senesce (die) or be killed by frost in cooler climates, completing its annual life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Cucumis sativus 'Marketmore', commonly known as the Marketmore cucumber, is typically propagated through seeds. The best time to start propagating Marketmore cucumbers is after the last frost date in spring when the soil has warmed to at least 70°F (21°C). Seeds should be sown directly into the garden or started indoors in pots 3-4 weeks before the intended outdoor planting date. Sow seeds 1/2 inch (1.27 cm) deep in nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. When starting indoors, it's important to harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over several days before transplanting to prevent shock. Space the plants about 36 inches (91 cm) apart in rows that are about 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) apart to ensure adequate air circulation and sunlight exposure, which are vital for healthy growth and fruit production.
