Do cucumber seeds need light to germinate  do not need light to germinate but they do need warmth. This is because they are a summer crop and need warm temperatures to grow. A heat mat or placing the seed trays on top of a refrigerator are great ways to help cucumber seeds get warmer. Alternatively, adding a layer of mulch like straw or chopped leaves to the planting area can also help the soil to stay warmer. The layer of organic material will also keep weeds at bay and make watering easier for you.

The best time to plant cucumbers is when the ground and air temperature are above 65 degrees F during the daytime and below 60 F at night. This usually happens about 1 to 2 weeks after the last spring frost date. If you are growing cucumbers indoors, sow the seeds 3 to 4 weeks before the transplanting date. When sowing outdoors, prepare the planting bed by incorporating organic material such as compost or aged manure to improve heavy clay soils.

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Once the seeds are planted, use an organic mulch of straw or shredded leaves to prevent the soil from getting too hot and to help the seeds retain moisture. Organic matter helps to build soil fertility and reduce fungal diseases, including powdery mildew. Water thoroughly and regularly to ensure the soil is constantly moist but not waterlogged. Apply an organic liquid or slow-release granule fertilizer that’s made for vegetables at the time of planting and several times throughout the growing season, following the label instructions.