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March is the perfect time for gardeners in Zone 5 to start planning and planting their cucumber crops. Choosing the right varieties can lead to a bountiful harvest and delicious salads. Here are the top five cucumber varieties to start in March for Zone 5 gardeners.
1. Marketmore 76
Marketmore 76 is a popular slicing cucumber known for its disease resistance and high yield. It produces dark green, uniform cucumbers that are perfect for fresh eating. This variety matures in about 65 days and thrives in the cooler early season of Zone 5.
2. Lemon Cucumber
The Lemon Cucumber is a unique variety with round, yellow fruits resembling lemons. It is crisp, sweet, and has a mild flavor. This variety is ideal for salads and pickling and can be started indoors in March for an early harvest.
3. Bush Pickle
Bush Pickle is a compact, bush-type cucumber perfect for small gardens and containers. It produces small, crunchy cucumbers that are excellent for pickling. Starting this variety indoors in March ensures a steady supply throughout the summer.
4. Armenian Cucumber
The Armenian Cucumber is technically a melon but is commonly used as a cucumber. It has a mild flavor, long shape, and tender skin. This variety is heat-tolerant and grows well when started indoors in early spring.
5. Suyo Long
Suyo Long is an heirloom variety with long, slender fruits that are very productive. It is resistant to common cucumber diseases and produces tender, flavorful cucumbers. Starting Suyo Long in March gives it ample time to develop before outdoor planting.
Tips for Starting Cucumbers in Zone 5
- Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Use peat pots or seed trays with quality seed-starting mix.
- Maintain temperatures around 70-75°F for optimal germination.
- Provide plenty of light, ideally using grow lights.
- Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
By selecting the right varieties and following these tips, Zone 5 gardeners can enjoy fresh, homegrown cucumbers throughout the summer. Happy planting!