How to Grow Boston Pickling Cucumbers From Seed

How many days does Boston Pickling cucumber take to grow?

Boston Pickling is a fast, early variety that reaches picking size in about 55 days from sowing. Because it is grown for small fruit, you start harvesting as soon as the cucumbers are 2 to 4 inches long, which comes even sooner than the full days-to-maturity figure suggests.

What size should I pick Boston Pickling cucumbers?

Pick them small and firm for the crispest pickles. Harvest at about 2 inches for cornichons and 3 to 5 inches for standard dill pickles. Check the vines every day or two at peak season, since the small blocky fruit sizes up quickly and picking often keeps the plant productive.

Is Boston Pickling only good for pickles?

No. While it is bred as a classic pickling cucumber, the crisp, blocky fruit is also good eaten fresh when picked young. Left a little longer it works in salads and refrigerator pickles, so a single planting gives you both fresh cucumbers and jars for the pantry.

How many Boston Pickling plants do I need for canning?

For a family that wants several jars of pickles, 3 to 6 healthy plants usually keep the canning pot busy through the summer. Boston Pickling is a heavy yielder, so even a short row produces plenty of small fruit if you keep it well watered and pick every couple of days.