All the nuances of pinching out cucumbers

Why pinch off stepsons?

Experienced plant breeders believe that the presence of side shoots can reduce the yield per plant. Furthermore, each side shoot, 30 cm long, reduces yield by as much as 2 kilograms. This is because, during intensive growth, side shoots take the lion's share of nutrients from the main shoot. A side shoot is essentially a branch from the main plant. Removing it early in growth is recommended. Now the purpose of this procedure becomes clear for those still unsure whether to side shoot their cucumbers.

Pinching out side shoots, which are found in the leaf axils of the main shoot, is one of the key factors affecting yield. Pinching out cucumbers conserves the plant's energy, which is directed toward fruit growth, and prevents it from being wasted on unnecessary green tops.

Which cucumbers don't require pinching?

Cucumber varieties such as single-stem cucumbers, which tend to form a luxurious bush as they grow, rather than climbing vines, typically produce female flowers and do not require pinching. These plants also produce male flowers, but fruit formation occurs thanks to the female flowers. Male flowers are considered barren and are needed for pollination. However, removing them is recommended, as too many can cause the fruit to taste bitter. It's best to remove about 80 percent of the male flowers. Experts believe that pinching out the male flowers can actually be harmful to these cucumber varieties.

How to pinch off stepsons

How can you properly remove side shoots from cucumbers and ensure good subsequent care for the crops?

Today, there are several methods for pruning cucumbers. The first method involves removing side shoots located at the nodal point of the main shoot. The second method involves removing the first six leaves located on the shoot and the ovary. These methods are suitable for open ground cultivation.

What's the best way to prune cucumbers? The side shoots are located above the main leaf. Gently push the leaf away by hand, and cut off the side shoot with a second one, using scissors or simply tearing it off.

If the stepson grows to 20 centimeters, there will be no point in removing it.

There is a proven method for pruning cucumbers when they are growing in a garden or greenhouse.

In open ground

For open ground, the same method briefly mentioned above is used. Unnecessary branches are removed, leaving only the main stem intact. This method is suitable for vertical vines along trellises and dense plantings. The result is a well-maintained bed, and harvesting is easy, as all ovaries and fruits are clearly visible.

There's another way to remove side shoots from cucumbers in open ground. Remove side shoots up to the first six leaves. The key is to pinch the top of the plant early to ensure proper development of the side shoots. After all, it's on these shoots that most of the female flowers form. This method helps you grow a lush bush that will produce beautiful and delicious fruit. After removing the side shoots, all that's left to do is to maintain proper care.

Pollinated cucumber varieties grown outdoors are typically trained in the shape of an inverted pyramid. To achieve this, the main vine is divided into four sections along its entire length, starting from the bottom. In the first section, side shoots are removed from the axils of the fourth leaf; in the second section, side shoots are pinched; in the third section, two leaves and two ovaries are left untouched; in the fourth section, three leaves and ovaries are left untouched.

In the greenhouse

The procedure of pinching out side shoots is especially important when growing vegetables in a heated greenhouse. Self-pollinating and parthenocarpic cucumber varieties are most often chosen for greenhouses. Since greenhouse space is limited, pinching out side shoots is especially important. The appearance of unwanted shoots will encourage the plants to shade each other.

Scheme for forming a cucumber bush in a greenhouse

It is recommended to remove side shoots when they reach 5–6 cm. The main stem should be tied to a trellis after planting. This procedure is first performed when 5–7 leaves appear. Side shoots are pruned to the 4th or 5th leaf, leaving only the most viable ones. The number of ovaries and emerging new branches should be regulated and reduced to the 3rd–5th node.

Side-sonning is a standard procedure. Four to five leaves are pinched off under each node. Don't allow the side-sons to become too large. They snap off easily before they become completely calloused.

Once the main stems of the plants have reached the ceiling, remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and then lower it. Adding a length of string to the upper part of the stem can help. The lower part of the plant stem is usually secured by forming a wide loop. Careful maintenance is then carried out on the plantings.

Video: "Technique for removing cucumber shoots in a greenhouse"

This video demonstrates a very simple technique for pinching greenhouse cucumbers and shaping their bushes.