The Best Variety Of Cucumber Plants To Grow Indoors

If you are set on growing cucumbers but don't have the outdoor space you think you need, we've got some great news. You don't need a big garden to grow cucumbers. You can grow them indoors. Since you are unlikely to import a squad of bees, birds, and butterflies into your home, the best option is to choose a cucumber variety that doesn't need pollination. Compact parthenocarpic cucumber varieties such as 'Picolino' and 'Mini-Me' are among the edible plants perfect for growing indoors and in small spaces.  

Parthenocarpic means the vegetables don't require pollination to set fruit, and these varieties are considered the most productive cucumbers. Instead of exerting their energy to make seeds, parthenocarpic varieties use their energy to grow more fruit. As a bonus, cucumbers produced through parthenocarpy are also seedless. You'll likely find parthenocarpic cucumber seeds more expensive than other varieties because, when pollinated, parthenocarpic types produce few seeds, though the higher price likely won't have much effect, given the limited number of plants you're likely to grow indoors. 

The preferred use of parthenocarpic cucumbers is not the only difference between growing cucumber indoors compared to outdoors. Indoor cucumbers typically don't need cold tolerance because they're obviously in a controlled environment and not subject to frost and freezes. For the same reasons, they also have a longer growing season. 

To successfully grow cucumbers indoors, it's helpful to know about the stages of growing cucumbers from seed to fruit. Start with 5-gallon containers that have drainage holes; the roots need ample space. Plant compact parthenocarpic cucumber seeds or seedlings in a fertile, well-draining soil mix. You can use a commercial potting blend or make your own by combining equal parts compost, peat moss, and perlite or vermiculite to enhance drainage. Maintain indoor temperatures between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and aim for a humidity level of 60 to 70%. A spray mister can help keep humidity at the correct level. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. 

Cucumbers need six to eight hours of sunlight each day, so place them near a bright window or use grow lights. Ensure good airflow around the plants to reduce the risk of fungal infections. Pruning can help with this. Use sharp pruning shears to snip the stem about ¼ inch above the cucumber; don't twist or yank, as that can damage the plant or fruit. Trellising is also quite possible for indoor-grown cukes (and needed given space limitations), but it may be a bit more "cumber"-some. Check the seed packet or plant tag for the expected mature size, and harvest when the fruit reaches that stage.