Cucumbers are one of the most popular vegetables in Lithuanian gardens, but it is very important to know when to sow cucumbers in order to get a rich harvest. The success of the planting depends on the weather conditions, the soil temperature and the method of choice – whether it will be planting sprouts or directly into the open soil. 2025 It is a good time for sowing in the spring to come a little later than usual, so it is important not only to observe the forecasts, but also to use time -tested gardeners’ experience and lunar calendar. In this article we will discuss the exact dates and the most important tips for successful cucumber production.
When to sow cucumbers in open soil in Lithuania
The most important indicator on which the sowing time depends is the soil temperature. It is not advisable to rush – if the soil is too cold, the seeds may not germinate or germinate very slowly. It is optimal for the soil to warm up to about 15 degrees Celsius at a depth of 10 cm.
At this temperature, sprouts sprout within 10 to 15 days, and even faster in warmer weather, within 4-5 days. It is also necessary to observe air forecasts – there should be no frost or high temperature fluctuations at night.
Approximate sowing dates in Lithuania in 2025:
- The end of April is the first sowing in the greenhouse or in the open soil under the agrofilm.
- The beginning of May – sowing to the open soil
- The beginning of June is sown for an additional or late harvest.
Sowing several times with a few weeks break, the longer cucumber harvesting period – June to September.
Sowing cucumber according to the wisdom of the elders
According to the Lithuanian folk tradition, the cucumbers were sitting through Jurgins – April 23. It is also considered a good sign when dandelion or apple petals begin to bloom – then, it is said that the soil is already warm and prepared for vegetable sowing. Although it is not an exact scientific indicator, long -term practice shows that these signs are almost always confirmed.
Sowing cucumber according to the lunar calendar in 2025
Many gardeners are based on the lunar calendar, which states when certain phases and zodiac signs of the moon promote or suppress plant growth. The best time for sowing cucumber is through the growing moon when it is in fertile signs: Taurus, Cancer, Virgin, Libra or Scorpio.
Favorable dates sowing cucumber in spring 2025:
- April 28-29 (until 9:30) – Growing Moon in Taurus
- May 1 (after 10:15) as well as 2 and 3 days (until 14:28) – Growing moon in Cancer
- May 6-7 – Growing Moon in Virgin
- May 8-10 – Growing Moon in Libra
- May 11 – Growing Moon in Scorpio
- May 25-26 – the moon in the bull
- May 29-30 – Growing Moon in Cancer
Adverse sowing days are a young moon and a full moon. At that time, the seeds often germinate unevenly and the plants may grow weaker.
How to prepare the soil cucumber sowing
Properly prepared soil is one of the most important conditions for successful sowing. Cucumbers like a warm, sunny and wind protected area, and the soil should be fertile, light and fluffy. Not suitable for too heavy or too acidic soil.
Soil preparation:
- About a week before sowing, the soil is harvested by inserting fertilizers (compost or rotting manure).
- Form beds and 5-7 cm deep furrows, 70-90 cm rows.
- Sow cucumber seeds about 30-40 cm, and 2 seeds can be added to each hole.
- Sprinkle the ground, press lightly and water.
To speed up germination, you can cover the beds with agrofilm – heat under the coating will stimulate the appearance of the sprouts. However, with the first tops of the sprouts, the agrofilm must be removed to prevent the plants from spreading out and strengthening.
Hybrid cucumber varieties (F1) are worth choosing for planting – they are often more resistant to disease, mature equally and provide a longer harvest period.
Photo @canva
I am Jovita, one of the authors of Hitas.lt articles. From an early age, I like to cook and I am glad that my mother allowed me to experiment in the kitchen. Favorite dishes are undoubtedly desserts. I also like to “spin” at home, so I try to give readers not only fun recipes, but also useful tips for housework.