Growing Cucumbers in New Zealand – Kings Seeds

Cucumbers are the crisp heroes of summer gardens, refreshing in salads, perfect for pickling, and surprisingly easy to grow when you understand their needs. No matter your gardening experience, knowing when to plant cucumbers in NZ, how to train cucumbers, and the best way to grow Lebanese cucumbers, which you will find here, will set you up for success.

At Kings Seeds, we believe Growing is for Everyone. With over 40 years of experience supplying quality seed across New Zealand, we’re proud to share knowledge that helps gardeners sow, nurture, and nourish. Let’s explore the best cucumber growing tips for Kiwi backyards and greenhouses.

 

Ideal Growing Conditions for Cucumber Seeds

Cucumbers thrive in warmth and sunshine. Aim for a spot that receives at least six hours of direct light daily. Soil should be rich in compost, well drained, and to those wanting to know what soil conditions cucumbers like; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0). Consistent moisture is important, but avoid water logging as roots dislike sitting in soggy ground.

Because cucumber vines are fast growers, they need feeding. Incorporate well-rotted compost or manure before planting, and top up with a multi-purpose liquid feed through the season. Mulching with straw or wool/wool buds helps conserve moisture, keeps fruit clean, and reduces weeds.

 

When and Where to Sow Cucumber Seeds in NZ

Timing depends on your climate zone. For most regions, ground sowing begins in late spring once soil temperatures reach at least 16°C. In warmer northern areas, gardeners can plant from September, while cooler southern regions may need to wait until late October or November. Starting cucumber seeds indoors can start from September in most areas to nurture established plants that will go outside after the last frost.

When considering where to plant cucumber NZ gardeners often choose sheltered sites. Cold winds slow cucumber plant growing and can stunt vines. A sunny wall, greenhouse, or tunnel house offers extra warmth, especially in frosty areas. 

Direct Sowing vs Seed Trays

Both methods work well for growing cucumbers. Direct sowing is quick and avoids transplant shock. Simply press two or three seeds into small mounds about 1.5 metres apart, thinning to the strongest seedling once they sprout.

Seed trays allow an earlier start indoors, especially in cooler parts of NZ. Use biodegradable pots like wool, as cucumbers dislike root disturbance. Harden seedlings off before transplanting to reduce stress.

If you’re wondering how long cucumber vines grow, expect them to stretch one to three metres depending on variety, so give them space from the beginning.

 

Greenhouse vs Outdoor Growing

For those asking how to grow cucumbers in a greenhouse, the answer is: with great success. Greenhouses extend the season, protect plants from frost, and create the humid conditions cucumbers adore. They’re ideal for growing cucumbers up trellises where fruit stays straight and clean. There are even self pollinating varieties like Medici F1 which can work perfectly in a greenhouse where pollinators might be scarce.

Outdoors, cucumbers thrive in well-prepared soil and full sun. Trellising improves airflow, reduces disease, and makes harvesting easier. In smaller gardens or pots, growing cucumbers in containers with stakes or netting is a smart choice.

Common Cucumber Seed Varieties and How to Ensure They Grow Well

Kings Seeds offers a wide range suited to different uses:

• Lebanese Cucumbers – Slender, mild, and perfect for fresh eating. The best way to grow Lebanese cucumbers is up trellises to keep fruit straight and skin tender Try varieties Amira, Crunchy, and Medici.

• Pickling Cucumbers – Shorter fruit, perfect for preserving. Sow several plants together for plentiful harvests. Try varieties Pick A Bushel, Paris Pickles, or Homemade Pickles. 

• Greenhouse Cucumbers – Bred for controlled environments, producing long, smooth fruit with minimal blemishes. Good greenhouse cucumbers are Tasty Queen, Medici, and Longfellow.

Each type benefits from regular harvesting. Pick often to encourage continuous production and prevent fruit from becoming oversized or bitter. Another great cucumber tip is succession sowing to make sure you have cucumbers all season long.

 

How to grow cucumbers step by step

1. Prepare the soil with compost and organic matter.

2. Sow seeds directly or in trays depending on climate & soil temperature.

3. Transplant carefully if grown indoors, using wool pots to protect roots.

4. Support vines with trellis, netting, or stakes to train cucumbers upwards.

5. Water regularly at the base, avoiding leaves to reduce mildew.

6. Feed every 2-3 weeks with liquid fertiliser.

7. Harvest frequently while fruit is small and tender.

Companion planting helps. Beans, lettuce, marigolds, dill, borage and corn make excellent cucumber companion plants, while avoiding potatoes reduces disease risks.

Top Tips Cucumber reel here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Growing Cucumbers

Are cucumbers better in pots or ground?

Both work well. Pots give control over soil and moisture, while ground planting offers larger root space and higher yields.

What is the trick to growing cucumbers?

Warm soil, steady watering, and regular picking are the keys. Keep vines supported and well fed for healthy crops.

Should I pinch off cucumber flowers?

Only remove the first few if plants are small. This encourages stronger root and leaf growth before heavy fruiting begins.

Is it better to grow cucumbers on a trellis or on the ground?

Trellises improve airflow, reduce disease, and produce straighter fruit. Ground growing works but can lead to bent cucumbers and higher pest pressure.

Growing Cucumbers in Your NZ Garden

Learning how to grow cucumbers in New Zealand is rewarding. With the right conditions, thoughtful sowing, and steady care, your plants will produce crunchy harvests and delicious meals all summer long. Whether you’re experimenting with how to plant lunchbox cucumbers, trialling greenhouse varieties, or training vines up trellises, cucumbers offer flavour, health and abundance.

Ready to start growing cucumbers? Explore the range of cucumber seeds at Kings Seeds, sow your favourites, and enjoy the taste of homegrown freshness this season. Sow, nurture, nourish - it all begins with a packet of seed.