Early planting of cucumber seedlings in the ground

No one argues that seedlings are grown in order to get the long-awaited harvest of fresh vegetables as soon as possible. And winning a few more days from the spring frosts is the cherished dream of most gardeners. This is why early planting of cucumber seedlings in the ground is so attractive.

Hardening off seedlings
But by creating optimal conditions for germination at home, we pamper the plants, and planting cucumber seedlings in the ground can significantly damage them. To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is advisable to harden the seedlings. Plants must be gradually accustomed to outdoor conditions: wind, ultraviolet radiation, sharp daily temperature fluctuations. To do this, it is enough to place a tray with seedlings on the balcony for several hours. For heat-loving crops, this procedure is carried out when the temperature in the shade rises to 10°C. If the daytime temperature exceeds 15°C, and the night temperature does not fall below 3°C, the seedlings do not need to be removed from the balcony. This will help the plants get used to the sudden temperature changes in spring.

Seedling shelter
But even hardened plants require additional shelter when planting cucumber seedlings early in the ground. So, a single-layer film cover helps to quickly warm up the soil, but may not save you from spring frosts. You can protect young plants from frost by using a two-layer coating. Then the layer of air remaining between the layers of film becomes additional thermal insulation.

You can also use paper caps as a cover.They save plants from low temperatures and contribute to the rapid development of the plant. Seedlings are covered with paper caps immediately after watering. The top of the cap is cut off, allowing air and light to penetrate, and the edges are covered with earth, securing the structure. This shelter is kept in the garden as long as it does not interfere with the growth of the plant.