60 Seeds

Grow a garden filled with Wisconsin SMR-58 Pickling Cucumbers, from freshly harvested Cucumis sativus seeds. Wisconsin SMR-58 Pickling is an heirloom variety that will produce dark green fruits, measuring up to 5 inches long. The flesh is light green and very tasty. Perfect for soaking up spices and pickling, these cucumbers produce plenty of fruits through the summer months.

Wisconsin SMR-58 is a popular variety for short season gardeners, especially in the North. The plants grow to a mature length of 3 to 4 feet long, and can be grown horizontally or vertically with a support or trellis. If grown vertically, you can save on garden space and expect higher yields due to increased airflow. Harvest in roughly 50 days.

Cucumbers taste great in salads, and most varieties are pickled as well. There are several health benefits that you may be interested in learning about, when it comes to consuming cucumbers. Some of these benefits include, reduced risk of cancer, reduced inflammation, fresher breath and benefits in weight loss. For more information on the benefits of eating cucumbers such as this, check out this article.

Sowing The Seed

Cucumbers, like most vegetables, can be started indoors, or directly outdoors as well. If started indoors, sow in peat pots, 6 to 8 weeks prior to the last frost. Sow 1 seed per peat pot, at a depth of 1/2" under topsoil. Provide a small stake for newly established plants. Transplant entire pots, or direct sow outdoors when the weather is warm and all danger of frost has passed. Check "Germination & Growth" for additional information on growth habits and spacing.

Growing Conditions

Cucumbers will enjoy the heat of summer, and require temperatures of at least 65F or higher. The soil should be fertile, rich in organic matter and well draining as well. To increase drainage, we recommend adding a light compost to areas containing hard, compact soil. Water the soil daily so that the plants receive an ample amount of moisture, but be careful not to overwater as this can cause your plants to become waterlogged.

Germination & Growth

Cucumber seeds typically take anywhere between 7 to 10 days to successfully germinate. The plants will grow to a vining length of roughly 3 to 5 feet long, but can be better maintained when grown vertically, through the use of a trellis or other support. The plants can be established on hills, versus rows, sowing 4 seeds per hill, directing the vines away from one another. Space each hill about 6 feet apart. Cucumbers are a delicious additive to many fresh, garden salads and are often times enjoyed raw as well.

Harvesting Your Wisconsin SMR-58 Pickling Cucumbers

Wisconsin SMR-58 Pickling Cucumbers can be harvested in roughly 50 days. These fruits are perfect when picked at 5 to 6 inches long. They can be stored for long periods of time by pickling. The fruits can also be picked and enjoyed raw as well. Avoid allowing the fruits to become overly ripe in order to keep production high.