Description

National Pickling Cucumber is a classic heirloom variety developed specifically for producing crisp, flavorful pickles. The vigorous vines yield abundant medium-green fruits with black spines and firm flesh that stays crunchy whether used for fresh eating, dill pickles, or bread-and-butter recipes.

Favored by home gardeners for generations, this reliable variety produces heavily throughout the season and performs well in a wide range of growing conditions. Its uniform fruits are ideal for both whole pickles and sliced preserves, making it one of the most popular traditional pickling cucumbers available.

• Type: Heirloom annual vegetable
• Direct sow: After last frost when soil has warmed
• Sun: Full sun
• Spacing: 12–18 inches
• Vine length: 5–6 feet
• Fruit size: 4–6 inches
• Days to harvest: 50–60 days

National Pickling Cucumbers grow best in warm temperatures and fertile, well-drained soil with regular watering. Harvest fruits frequently while young and firm to encourage continuous production and maintain the best texture for pickling. Trellising can improve airflow and fruit quality, though vines also perform well when allowed to spread naturally.

Additional information