Why and how you should grow cucumbers in your garden

There are very few fruits more synonymous with summer than cucumbers. Let’s see why and how you should grow cucumbers in your garden.

Cucumbers are part of the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes melons, zucchini, and squash. They are a very refreshing and delicious food and keep you hydrated because of their high water content.

Let’s take a look at some of cucumbers benefits.

Anti-inflammatory:
The flavonoids in cucumbers work like to over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and aspirin by stopping the activity of an enzyme called cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), which causes inflammation.

Cancer prevention:
Studies about cucumbers in relation to cancer treatment are still in the early stages, but the results are promising.

A study from the University of California Los Angeles shows that a compound called cucurbitacins in cucumbers may be beneficial as a potent anti-cancer drug in the future. Cucumbers are also a good source of lignans, which are antioxidants that have shown the ability to reduce risk of estrogen-related cancers such as cancer of the breast, ovary, prostate, and uterus.

Healthy skin:
The anti-inflammatory effects of cucumbers aid in healthy skin. The high water content also keeps skin hydrated and moist. Placing a slice over puffy eyes can help relieve inflammation.

Hydration:
Cucumbers are about 95 percent water, which helps keeps the body and skin hydrated. Eating foods with high water content can help flush out harmful toxins in our body.

Weight loss:
Cucumbers are low in calories, containing only 8 calories in every half a cup.

They are also called water foods as they are very high in water content, which helps get rid of toxins in the digestive system. Cucumbers are high in dietary fiber. Foods with low calories and high fiber content are essential for weight loss.

Let’s check out some tips on how to grow cucumbers via Dr. Mercola, a leading natural health expert and physician.

Mercola explains:

Directions:

1. Plant your seeds in rows, about 1/2 to 1 inch deep. Plant each seed anywhere from 1 to 6 inches apart. Cucumber plants grow better in loose soil that drains faster. Compost will help it grow.

2. Water generously in the morning and allow it to dry out at least three inches deep before watering again.

3. If the plant gets too dry, the fruit can become bitter. However, a layer of mulch can help maintain proper moisture. Moisture levels are even more important during flowering and fruiting.

4. Once the plants get to about 4 inches tall, trim the rows so that the plants are spaced anywhere from 12 to 24 inches apart.

5. Four weeks after planting, side-dress with compost, aged manure, or 1 tablespoon of 10-7-7 organic fertilizer.

6. As the plant grows bigger, train it to grow upward on your trellis to keep the fruit straighter and to help keep pests away.

Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.

DON’T FORGET to sign up for our weekly newsletter to get our latest articles, updates, free recipes and giveaways.

Health benefits of cucumbers.
Weight loss kale lemonade for your summer beach body.
Strawberry grapefruit summer detox water.

REFERENCES:
1. “How to Grow Cucumbers in Your Garden or Container.” Mercola.com. Mercola.com, n.d. Web. 03 June 2017.
2. “21 Tips for Growing Cucumbers.” MNN – Mother Nature Network. Mother Nature Network, 31 May 2017. Web. 03 June 2017.
3. “What You Need to Know About Growing Cucumbers (6 Steps).” Organic Authority. N.p., n.d. Web. 03 June 2017.
4. “How to Plant Cucumber Seeds: A Step-by-step Guide.” Savvy Gardening. Savvy Gardening, 28 Apr. 2017. Web. 03 June 2017.
5. “Tips For Growing Cucumbers: How To Grow Cucumbers.” Gardening Know How. Gardening Know How, 20 Mar. 2016. Web. 03 June 2017.

Print Friendly