Disposing of overripe cucumbers is scheduled for August.
In the heat and drought of August, maintaining delicious, sweet cucumbers can be a challenge. However, with a few simple techniques, you can reduce bitterness and enjoy a bountiful harvest.
To start, consistent soil moisture is key. Regular watering and mulching help prevent water stress that increases bitterness. Mulching, whether with straw, grass, or wood chips, not only preserves soil moisture but also reduces the need for watering.
Shading cucumber plants during peak heat can also help. Using shade covers can reduce heat stress on plants, mitigating bitterness caused by excessive sun exposure.
When it comes to harvesting and preparation, peeling cucumbers and cutting off the bitter ends removes much of the bitterness concentrated in those parts. Soaking cucumber slices in salted water helps draw out bitter compounds, while dressing them with lemon juice or vinegar helps mask bitterness.
Cooking or blending bitter cucumbers can also help reduce the perception of bitterness. The "Magic Spoon" method, where cucumbers are soaked in cold, salted water for 30-40 minutes, is particularly effective.
It's important to note that the main cause of bitterness in cucumbers is a natural substance called cucurbitacin. To avoid an overabundance of this substance, avoid using fertilizers with high nitrogen content, such as urea or manure. Instead, use potassium-phosphorus fertilizer to promote fruit growth.
Pruning the bottom leaves of cucumber plants can improve ventilation and reduce plant stress, especially in dense plantings. This, along with timely actions, can save the taste of your cucumber harvest and extend the fruiting season until September.
Late Oгурец planting is forgiving of mistakes and can yield until frost. There are three varieties of late Oгурец that are particularly suitable for this: Lemon, Marketmore, and Burpless.
If you suddenly notice bitterness at the end of summer, following the advice of experienced gardeners may help to prevent all remaining fruits from being tasteless. Remember, cucumbers can become bitter in August due to stress from heat, drought, sudden temperature changes, and irregular watering.
By implementing these practices, you can ensure a sweet and delicious cucumber harvest even in the heat of August. Happy gardening!
Cucumber plants thrive better with regular watering and mulching, which help preserve soil moisture, reduce water stress, and consequently, prevent bitterness. Alternatively, shading cucumber plants during peak heat can help mitigate bitterness caused by excessive sun exposure.
