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Bituin (UPL Cu-11). A high yielding open-pollinated, slicing variety. It is strongly gynoecious and fruits are
medium to long (15-18 cm), uniformly dark green in color with white spines. It has a potential yield ranging
from 25-35t/ha. It is moderately tolerant to downy mildew, cucumber mosaic virus, and powdery mildew. The
most common insect pests are aphids, leaffolders, and squash beetles.
Planting
Sow 3-4 seeds/hills and cover with a thin layer of soil. About 2-3 kg of seeds are required for one hectare.
Irrigate the field right after sowing. Five to seven days after germination, rogue excess seedlings and maintain
only two plants/hill.
Fertilization
Apply 10-15 g (1-1.5 tbsp) of complete fertilizer (14-14-14) per hill at planting. Side-dress three weeks later
by mixing two parts urea (46-0-0) and one part muriate of potash (0-0-60). Apply 10 g (1 tbsp) of this mixture
to each hill in bands. A third side-dressing can be done (optional) using the same rate of mixture depending on
the maturity of the variety.
Trellising
Ipil-ipil posts spaced 3-4 m apart are laid out in the field. GI wire # 16 can be used to connect the poles along
each furrow. Abaca twine or synthetic straw can be used for vine training.
Water Management
During the dry season, water regularly every 10-14 days depending on the soil type and weather condition.
Avoid too much water.
Harvesting
Harvest slicing varieties at 38-45 days after planting. Harvest gherkins (pickling type) 3-5 days earlier. Harvest
every other day or when necessary. Remove all deformed fruits to promote the production of normal fruits.
Pest and Disease Management
Use off-baring and hilling-up to suppress weed growth in relatively large plantations. Regular spot weeding is
recommended for backyard gardening.
Most recommended varieties are tolerant to common pests and diseases. However, if chemical control is
necessary, use the recommended pesticides for specific pests as indicated above. Alternative control measures
include: 1) adjustment in planting dates (avoid planting between February and April to minimize thrips and
mites population); 2) use of resistant varieties; 3) proper sanitation (includes burning of infected plant parts);
4) crop rotation; 5) use of botanical pesticides; and 6) use of other biological control methods (e.g.
Trichogramma).
Source: Cucumber Production Guide. Info. Bulletin No. 152/1999 PCARRD – https://www.darfu4b.da.gov.ph
Image: growfruitandveg.co.uk