Today, we dive into the world of cucumbers, the second most popular crop among backyard gardeners. Debbie Flower shares her expertise on cucumber varieties, growing techniques, and addressing common issues like bitterness. We discuss the importance of starting with fresh seeds, maintaining warm soil, and ensuring consistent moisture for optimal growth. Debbie also explains how to identify and manage male and female flowers, trellising for space optimization, as well as pest and disease management. (Originally aired in May, 2023)

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Cucumbers Growing on a Trellis

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Should You Prune Off Tomato Flowers?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Cucumber growing info from Sonoma County Master Gardeners

Cucumber Pests

Cucumber seeds

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
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Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

We explore the concept of a survival garden, focusing on growing nutritious crops that enhance healthy living. We redefine "survival garden" as a means to reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods while improving dietary intake. Our discussion includes practical tips for cultivating calorie-rich vegetable staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, evaluating their yields and family preferences.

The episode covers specific planting techniques for various vegetables, along with our personal gardening experiences, highlighting the adaptability needed for successful growth and storage of crops. Ultimately, we aim to inspire you to embrace gardening as a sustainable practice that enriches nutrition and well-being.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Heirloom Popcorn - Pennsylvania Butter Flavored

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “Growing Microgreens” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

“Growing A Survival Garden” - Modern Farmer, October 2024

Mushroom Growing Kits

Microgreen Seed Sources - Johnny’s Selected Seeds, Harris Seeds

Bean Seeds - Yellow Indian Woman (Buckeye Bean), Bingo

Beet Seeds - Choggia, Golden

Growing Sweet Corn Information (Iowa State)

Sweet Corn Production in California (UCANR)

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.

Episode 394 features climate scientist Daniel Swain of Weather West and UCANR discussing the link between gardening and weather patterns. He provides tips on monitoring conditions, setting up weather stations, and adapting practices amid National Weather Service budget cuts.

Previous episodes, show notes, links, product information, and transcripts at the home site for Garden Basics with Farmer Fred, GardenBasics.net. Transcripts and episode chapters also available at Buzzsprout.

Now on YouTube (audio)

Pictured: Davis Vantage Pro Weather Station (Photo: Wikimedia Commons)

Links:

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter This week’s edition: “What is a Grocery Store Vine-Ripened Tomato?” By becoming a paid subscriber, you’re helping support the newsletter and this podcast. Thank You!

Dave Wilson Nursery https://www.davewilson.com/home-garden/

Daniel Swain / WeatherWest on YouTube

Home Weather Stations

Davis Instruments Weather Stations

All About Farmer Fred:
GardenBasics.net

“Beyond the Garden Basics” Newsletter

Farmer Fred website:
http://farmerfred.com

The Farmer Fred Rant! Blog
http://farmerfredrant.blogspot.com

Facebook: "Get Growing with Farmer Fred"

Instagram: farmerfredhoffman
https://www.instagram.com/farmerfredhoffman/

Blue Sky: @farmerfred.bsky.social

Farmer Fred Garden Minute Videos on YouTube
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases from possible links mentioned here.

Got a garden question?

• Leave an audio question without making a phone call via Speakpipe, at https://www.speakpipe.com/gardenbasics

• Call or text us the question: 916-292-8964.

• Fill out the contact box at GardenBasics.net

• E-mail: fred@farmerfred.com

Thank you for listening, subscribing and commenting on the Garden Basics with Farmer Fred podcast and the Beyond the Garden Basics Newsletter.