How to Grow Cucumbers on Towers

Plant cucumbers in mid-spring when frost lifts and temperatures rise to 65 degrees F. Cucumber seeds and seedlings fail in frost and temperatures under 55 degrees F. Put the plants in sites with 8 hours of bright sun every day with quick drainage and good air movement.

Amend the soil in the planting beds to a depth of 10 inches. Mix the natural soil well and incorporate 5 inches of organic compost for moisture, nutrition and soil quality. Add 5-10-10 fertilizer for best starting nutrition and rooting.

Plant cucumbers at 2 to 3 feet in the row, with 5 to 6 feet between rows. Place a tower or vegetable cage over each seedling, with the seedlings in the middle of the cages.

Water the garden with 2 inches of water every week and use 2 inches of organic mulch on the soil to maintain moisture and warmth. Replenish the mulch as it breaks down, or mix it into the soil every month for additional nutrition, then replenish.

Tie the vines of the cucumber plants up to the wires of the cages or towers as they grow, and train them up and around the structures. Use cord ties and tie main vines loosely to avoid cutting or damaging the plant matter. Don't tie flowers or leaves as those break and cause damage.

Fertilize cucumbers again 1 week after the first blossoms appear. Turn 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer into the soil around each plant, then water. This feeding gives the plants more resources for blooming and fruit production.