Cucumber F1 Orpheus

15 Seeds

Seeding Cucumber F1 Orpheus involves a few steps to ensure strong germination and a healthy crop. Here's a guide specifically for this F1 hybrid cucumber variety, known for its high yield and disease resistance:

✅ Quick Overview of Cucumber F1 Orpheus

• Type: Hybrid (F1), parthenocarpic (doesn’t need pollination)

• Growth habit: Typically greenhouse or polytunnel cultivation, but can also be grown outdoors in warm climates.

• Fruit: Uniform, smooth, medium-sized cucumbers

• Ideal for: Slicing or fresh market

🪴 Step-by-Step Seeding Instructions

1. When to Seed

• Indoors (for transplanting): 3–4 weeks before the last frost

• Direct sowing outdoors: After the danger of frost is gone and soil temp is above 18°C (65°F)

2. Seed Preparation

• Soaking is optional for hybrids but can help germination. Soak in warm water for 4–6 hours.

3. Soil Preparation

• Light, well-draining soil with pH 6.0–7.0

• Enrich with compost or a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK)

4. Planting

• Depth: 1.5 to 2 cm (about ½ to ¾ inch)

• Spacing:

  • Indoors (pots/trays): One seed per 7–10 cm cell or pot

  • Outdoors/bed spacing:

    • 30–45 cm (12–18 in) between plants

    • 90–120 cm (3–4 ft) between rows (or use trellising)

5. Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged

• Use lukewarm water if possible

6. Germination

• Temperature: 21–30°C (70–86°F)

• Germination time: 4–8 days

7. Transplanting (if started indoors)

• Transplant when seedlings have 2–3 true leaves

• Harden off for 4–5 days before transplanting outdoors

🌱 Growing Tips

• Support: Use a trellis to keep fruits clean and improve airflow

• Mulch: Helps retain soil moisture and reduce weeds

• Feeding: Side-dress with fertilizer every few weeks or use liquid feed

• Pests/Disease: Watch for aphids, cucumber beetles, powdery mildew. Orpheus F1 has good disease resistance.