Cucumber 'Beth Alpha'

50 seeds

1. Sow Indoors or Outdoors:

   - Indoors: Start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost. 

     - Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in small pots or seed trays using a well-draining potting mix.

     - Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of 70–85°F (21–29°C) for optimal germination. Germination usually occurs within 7–14 days.

   - Outdoors: Directly sow seeds outdoors after the last frost in early to mid-spring. 

     - Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and space them about 6–12 inches apart in rows or raised beds. Ensure you have well-draining soil and full sun exposure.

2. Sunlight and Support:

   - Sunlight: Cucumbers thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

   - Support: 'Beth Alpha' is a bushy cucumber variety, so it doesn’t need as much vertical support as vining types, but providing a trellis or cucumber cage can still help improve air circulation and keep the fruit clean.

3. Watering and Care:

   - Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Cucumbers need consistent moisture to prevent bitterness in the fruit.

   - Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

   - Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once plants start to grow, and supplement with liquid fertilizer during the flowering and fruiting stages.

4. Harvesting:

   - Beth Alpha cucumbers are known for their crisp, sweet flavor and smooth skin. They’re typically ready to harvest in about 50–55 days from sowing. 

   - Harvest cucumbers when they’re about 4–6 inches long. Pick them regularly to encourage continued fruiting.

5. General Tips:

   - Beth Alpha is an early-maturing, compact cucumber variety that’s perfect for small spaces like containers or raised beds.

   - Regular harvesting will prevent the plants from becoming overgrown and encourage more fruit production.

This variety is great for fresh eating, salads, and pickling. It’s known for its disease resistance and ability to grow well even in cooler climates.