The Ultimate Dual-Purpose Cuke for Pickling and Slicing

Cucumber National Pickling is a versatile and high-yielding variety that matures in just 52 days, making it an early-season favorite among gardeners and commercial growers alike. Developed in the late 1920s by the National Pickle Packers Association in collaboration with the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, this heirloom cucumber has stood the test of time for nearly a century, becoming the standard for pickling cucumbers.

As a dual-purpose cucumber, National Pickling excels in both pickling and fresh eating. Its blocky shape with slightly tapered ends was specifically designed to fit perfectly in pickle jars, maximizing space and providing more delicious bites per jar. The dark green fruits, adorned with black spines, grow up to 6 inches long and offer an satisfying crunch whether enjoyed fresh or pickled. This variety’s versatility allows for harvesting at various sizes, from 2-3 inches for gherkins to 4-5 inches for fresh eating or full-sized pickling.

National Pickling cucumbers grow on vigorous, medium-sized vines that can reach 2-4 feet in height. These prolific plants produce heavy yields throughout the growing season, ensuring a continuous harvest for weeks. The cucumber’s resistance to scab and cucumber mosaic virus contributes to its reliability and productivity. For optimal growth and easier harvesting, consider trellising the vines, which not only saves space but also promotes better air circulation and reduces the risk of disease.

Growing Success Tips:

• Plant in full sun and well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5-6.8
• Sow seeds 1/2 to 1 inch deep, spacing plants 3 feet apart after thinning
• Provide consistent moisture and regular fertilization for optimal growth and fruit production
• Harvest frequently to encourage continuous production throughout the season

National Pickling Cucumber offers an exceptional balance of productivity, versatility, and flavor, making it an invaluable addition to any vegetable garden. Whether you’re an avid pickler or simply enjoy fresh, crisp cucumbers in your salads, this variety delivers on all fronts.

For straighter fruits and easier harvesting, consider growing your National Pickling Cucumbers on a trellis or fence.

Product Features

• Maturity: 52 days from planting
• Fruit Length: 5-6 inches when fully mature
• Color: Dark green with black spines
• Disease Resistance: Scab and Cucumber Mosaic Virus

Growing Information

• Sunlight: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile, pH 5.5-6.8
• Watering: Consistent moisture
• Spacing: 3 feet between plants
• Plant Height: 2-4 feet

Key Benefits

• Dual-purpose for both pickling and fresh eating
• High-yielding and early-maturing variety
• Perfect shape for efficient pickling jar space utilization
• Excellent disease resistance for reliable harvests