Cucumbers are generally harvested between 50 to 70 days after planting, depending on the variety. The best time to harvest cucumbers is when they reach the expected size for their variety, with firm, vibrant green (or appropriate color) skin. Most cucumbers are sweetest and crispiest when harvested on the smaller side, before seeds become hard and the skin toughens. It's advised to check plants daily as cucumbers can quickly go from perfect ripeness to overripe. Morning harvest is ideal for crispness, and cucumbers should be cut from the vine with a bit of stem left to prevent rot. If frost is approaching, all cucumbers should be harvested regardless of size since they won't ripen post-harvest.
Harvest sizes vary by variety:
- Pickling cucumbers can be harvested quite small, around 1.5 to 4 inches.
- Slicing and burpless cucumbers are best between 6 and 8 inches.
- English cucumbers are ripe at 10 to 18 inches.
- Armenian cucumbers should be harvested before they exceed 18 inches.
In summary, cucumbers are harvested based on days from planting, size, firmness, and color, with early morning harvest recommended for best quality.
