Description
| Seeds | 25 seeds $2.95, 100 seeds $7.50 |
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Mexican Sour Gherkin (Melothria scabra)
Heritage: Mexico, and throughout South America
This wild, and uniquely historic variety began appearing in Northern gardens in the late 1980’s. There is no definitive record identifying the initial point of arrival.
Delicate vining plants are perfect for a trellis. Depending on climate conditions they can grow up to 9 ft (2.8 m) tall. Vines produce an abundance of small oblong fruit 1-2” (2-5cm) long. The skin is a light green mottled with dark variegation, resembling a miniature watermelon! They make a perfect crudité, with a light crunchy skin and mouth-popping sweet-tart flavour. Although commonly pickled, they already taste as if they were! Interesting addition to any salad with an oil & vinaigrette dressing. Hardy for such a petit fruit. Drought resistant, and pest resistant compared to the more common cucumber varieties. Note: Need to keep your eye on them as they fall of the vines when they are ripe. Matures in 70-80 days. (410 seeds/g)
Tips for Growing Captivating Cucumbers! Cucumbers love warm weather and need full sun for optimum production. It is best to start the seed indoors planted 1” (2.5cm) deep in small pots, 3-4 weeks before the last frost. When the soil has warmed transplant in the garden spacing at least 12” (30cm) apart preferably in hills (12” tall, 24” across). Alternatively, cucumbers can be direct-seeded in warm soil, or earlier with row covers, with equally good or better results. Ensure they are well-watered and mulched throughout the growing season. Good planting companions are; corn, beans, and sunflowers. Cucumbers usually germinate within 5-10 days (75-95ºF/24-35ºC).
