When to Plant Cucumbers in the UK

Cucumbers grow best in warm conditions and should be planted after the risk of frost has passed. Planting at the right time helps seeds germinate quickly and plants grow strongly.

Cucumbers are sensitive to cold weather, so waiting for warmer temperatures usually produces better results.

Most cucumbers are started indoors before being planted outside.

Starting cucumber seeds indoors

Cucumber seeds are usually started indoors between April and May.

Seeds germinate quickly in warm conditions.

Plants grow rapidly once established.

Planting cucumbers outdoors

Cucumbers are usually planted outside in late May or early June, once temperatures are consistently warm.

Soil should be warm and easy to work.

Cold soil can slow growth.

Growing cucumbers in greenhouses

Cucumbers can be planted earlier in greenhouses where temperatures stay warmer.

Greenhouse cucumbers often grow faster and produce earlier fruit.

Growing cucumbers in containers

Cucumbers can be planted in containers once warm weather arrives.

For container advice, see growing cucumbers in containers.

Planning the cucumber growing season

Planting cucumbers at the right time helps plants establish quickly.

Most cucumber plants produce fruit during summer.

For growing advice, see how to grow cucumbers in the UK.