To plant cucumbers effectively, spacing depends on whether you are growing them on the ground or vertically on trellises, as well as whether you are planting seeds or transplants.
Ground Planting
- When planting cucumbers directly in the ground from seeds, space seeds 10-12 inches apart in rows that are 18-24 inches apart
- If planting transplants in the ground, space plants about 2 to 3 feet (24 to 36 inches) apart to allow room for sprawling vines
- Some sources recommend spacing vining cucumbers 3 to 6 feet apart if grown without support to give ample room for growth
Vertical/Trellis Planting
- When growing cucumbers on a trellis, plants can be spaced closer since vines grow upward.
- Seeds can be planted as close as 4 to 6 inches apart at the base of the trellis
- Transplants should be spaced 6 to 8 inches apart when grown vertically to reduce competition and transplant shock
- Another guideline is to space trellis-grown cucumbers about 12 inches apart
Summary Table
Growing Method| Seed Spacing| Transplant Spacing| Row/Group Spacing
---|---|---|---
Ground (seeds)| 10-12 inches apart| N/A| Rows 18-24 inches apart4
Ground (transplants)| N/A| 24-36 inches apart| -
Trellis (seeds)| 4-6 inches apart| N/A| -
Trellis (transplants)| N/A| 6-8 inches apart| -
In general, allowing about 1 foot between trellis-grown plants and 3 feet or more between ground-grown plants is a good rule of thumb to ensure healthy growth and good air circulation
. This spacing helps reduce disease risk, improves airflow, and maximizes yields.
