Starting Cucumbers from Seed

by Kathy C.
(Jonesboro, GA)

I planted cuke seeds in a peat pot (Jiffy Pots) and followed all directions. Within 4 days a shoot approximately 3 inches high is present. The first "true leaf" has not yet appeared, but I am afraid the shoot will become too weak. What should I do?

Also there appears to be some "fuzz" at the base where the shoot has come out from the seed. What is this and is it harmful?

Answer:

Hi Kathy,

If your seedling is growing too tall without forming leaves, it could be that it has too much light. Try moving your pots a few inches farther away from the light source if possible.

The "fuzz" is probably a fungus. This can happen if the soil is too wet and/or doesn't have enough air circulation.

You want the soil to be damp, but not soggy wet. You can use a small fan to keep the air moving around your seedlings.

You can also use some hydrogen peroxide on a Q-Tip to gently remove the fuzz from the base of the seedling.

I hope this helps...good luck, and let me know how it turns out!