Can You Plant Cucumbers in September?

Cucumbers are usually planted in mid-summer for a fall harvest.

Fall Planting

September signifies the end of summer and beginning of fall -- a time not normally associated with sowing seeds. In mild climates cool-season crops like lettuce, spinach and broccoli are safely planted for a fall harvest. Warmth-loving cucumbers will not survive a winter, even in mild climates.

Midsummer Planting

Cucumber seeds sown in midsummer have time to take root, develop and fruit before the oncoming winter. Plant cucumber seeds in midsummer and you can expect a fall harvest.

Bottom Line

Cucumbers are warm-season crops and should be planted when weather is warm. Unless you live in the southern hemisphere where September is a warm month, September is usually too cool for healthy cucumber development.

References

• Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet; Growing Cucumbers in the Home Garden; Pamela J. Bennett
• Oregon State University Extension; Fall and Winter Gardening