When to Harvest Cucumbers: Size Cues by Type
When to harvest cucumbers depends on the type you grow. Pick them at the size for their type, while firm plus dark green, before seeds harden or skins yellow. Pickling types are ready small. Slicing types are ready longer. Checking vines every 2 to 3 days catches fruit at the right size.
The short answer
Iowa State University Extension advises harvesting cucumbers every 2 to 3 days. Pick pickling varieties at 2 to 4 inches long. Pick slicing cucumbers at 6 to 8 inches long plus 1.5 to 2 inches across, while still dark green plus firm. Over mature fruit left on the vine slows new fruit set.
What size should each cucumber type be?
Size cues differ by type plus source. Clemson Extension notes pickling types are harvested between 2 plus 6 inches long. Slicing plus burpless types are typically picked between 6 plus 10 inches long. South Dakota State University Extension notes slicing types are longer plus thinner than pickling types.
Pickling cucumbers are short, blocky fruit with firm flesh plus bumpy skin, per Clemson Extension. South Dakota State University Extension notes a pickling cucumber that grows to five or six inches can still be picked as a slicer if its seeds have not hardened.
| Type | Size cue | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pickling | 2 to 6 inches long | Short, blocky, bumpy skin |
| Slicing | 6 to 8 inches long, 1.5 to 2 inches across | Dark green plus firm |
| Slicing plus burpless | 6 to 10 inches long | Long plus slender |
| Any type at season end | Over ¾ inch long | Pick before frost |
Source: Iowa State University Extension plus Clemson Extension plus South Dakota State University Extension.
Why pick before yellowing?
Yellow fruit is past its peak. South Dakota State University Extension notes very ripe cucumbers turn deep yellow with spongy flesh plus hard seeds. Fruit left on the vine too long pulls the plant’s energy away from new fruit.
University of Illinois Extension advises never letting cucumbers turn yellow. If a single cucumber is left on the vine to mature, the vine may stop producing altogether. Remove any missed fruits nearing ripeness so the young fruits go on developing.
How often should cucumbers be picked?
Often. University of Illinois Extension notes the fruit grows rapidly to harvest size plus should be picked at least every other day. South Dakota State University Extension suggests every other day, or even daily, in peak season.
Clemson Extension notes cucumbers are usually ready about 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on the cultivar. Picking as often as needed avoids oversized fruit plus lets the vines go on producing.
How to: step by step
- Begin checking vines about 50 days after planting.
- Pick pickling types at 2 to 6 inches.
- Pick slicing types at 6 to 10 inches while dark green.
- Cut stems with a sharp knife or pruners.
- Remove any yellow or oversized fruit at once.
- Pick at least every other day.
Troubleshooting
Vines stop setting fruit: mature fruit left on the vine. Remove over mature cucumbers as soon as you see them.
Yellow, spongy fruit: picked too late. Harvest sooner plus check vines every 2 to 3 days.
Torn vines after picking: fruit pulled by hand. Cut stems with a sharp knife or pruners for a clean break.
For related reading see when to harvest outdoor cannabis, time of day to harvest cannabis plus checking soil moisture by feel. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- When should I harvest cucumbers, Iowa State University Extension
- Harvesting cucumbers, South Dakota State University Extension
- Cucumber, home vegetable gardening, University of Illinois Extension
- Cucumber, Clemson Cooperative Extension HGIC
FAQ
How long do cucumbers take to grow?
About 50 to 70 days, depending on the cultivar, per Clemson Extension. Cucumbers are a warm season crop that grows fastest between 75 plus 85°F. Plant seed or transplants after frost danger has passed plus soil reaches 70°F. Seeds will not germinate in soil below 50°F, so cold soil slows the whole crop.
Can cucumbers ripen off the vine?
No source supports ripening off the vine, so pick at the right size. University of Illinois Extension notes cucumbers can be picked at any stage of development before the seeds become hard. Size, firmness plus dark green color are the cues. Fruit grows rapidly, so check vines at least every other day.
Why are my cucumbers yellow?
They were left on the vine too long. South Dakota State University Extension notes very ripe cucumbers turn deep yellow with spongy flesh plus hard seeds. University of Illinois Extension advises removing yellow fruit right away, since a mature fruit left on the vine can stop new production. Pick more often to prevent it.
Do cucumbers need pollinators to set fruit?
Most do. Clemson Extension notes most cultivars produce separate female plus male flowers plus require pollinating insects to set fruit. Female flowers have a swollen base where the fruit develops. Newer parthenocarpic hybrids produce mostly female flowers plus set seedless fruit without pollination, so they bear earlier.
How far apart should cucumbers be planted?
It depends on support. Clemson Extension advises thinning trellised cucumbers to 9 to 12 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart. Space non trellised plants 8 to 10 inches apart in rows 5 feet apart. Training vines on a trellis or fence lifts fruit off the ground plus saves garden space.
