substantive Information
The African horned cucumber ( Cucumis metuliferus ) , also sleep with as the kiwano , is a unique andfascinating fruitthat has captured the attention of gardener and foodies likewise . With its striking appearance , refreshing taste , and possible health benefit , growing kiwano is arewarding endeavorfor those seeking to boom theirhorticultural skyline . This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential cognition and techniques to successfully cultivate this extraordinary plant in your own garden .
Choosing the Right Location
African tusk cucumbers flourish in affectionate , cheery environmentswith well - drained soil . Select aplanting sitethat receives at least 6 hour of sunshine per twenty-four hour period . The soil should be free , fertile , and have a pH between 6.0 and 6.8 .
Starting Seeds
Start seeds indoors 6 - 8 weeks before the lastfrost escort . Sow seed ¼ inch deeply in a seed starting mix and keep them warm at 75 - 80 ° F ( 24 - 27 ° atomic number 6 ) . Onceseedlings emerge , provide them with tidy sum of light and water .
Transplanting Seedlings
When seedlings have developed their first jell oftrue leaves , they can betransplanted outdoors . season them off by step by step disclose them to the outside conditions for a week before planting . Space plant 3 - 4 feet apart to permit for right growth and ventilation .
Trellising
African tusk cucumbers arevigorous vinesthatrequire supporttogrow in good order . instal a trellis or bet to allow for them with something to climb on . This will also better air circulation and repress the risk of disease .
Watering
weewee plant deeply and on a regular basis , especially during spicy , ironical weather . Avoid overwatering , as this can run toroot rot . Mulch around the plants to help retain wet and suppress weeds .
Fertilizing
Fertilize plants every 2 - 3 weeks with abalanced plant food . obviate using plant food withhigh levelsof nitrogen , as this can promote undue vine increase at the expense of fruit output .
Pollination
African tusk cucumbers are monecious , meaning they have both male and female heyday on the same plant life . However , cross - pollination is necessary forfruit set . Toensure proper pollination , plant multiple plantsor introduce pollinator such as bees or butterflies to the garden .
Harvesting
African horned cucumbers are ready to harvest when they attain theirfull sizeand the pelt becomes cover with car horn - comparable spindle . The fruits should be firm to the tinge and have aslight givewhen pressed . glean them by curve the stem with a precipitous tongue .
Storing
Kiwano can be lay in at room temperature for up to a week or in the icebox for up to 2 week . To extend theirshelf aliveness , store them in a cool , dark placewith in effect public discussion .
Troubleshooting
yellow Leaves : This can be triggered by overwatering , nutrient inadequacy , or disease . hold thesoil moistureand fertilize if necessary . Powdery Mildew : Thisfungal diseaseis characterize by a livid powdery growth on the leaf . Treat with a antifungal agent or expend constitutive remediation such as neem crude or baking soda . Aphids : Thesesmall insectscan suck the tomfool from plants , stimulate scrawny growth and yellow leave of absence . Control them withinsecticidal soapor neem oil .
Takeaways
grow African tusk Cucumis sativus is arewarding experiencethat canyield uniqueand delicious yield . By following the techniques outline in this pathfinder , you could successfully crop thisfascinating plantin your own garden . comprehend the challenge and enjoy the fruit of your labour .
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q : How often should I irrigate African horned cucumbers?A : Water deeplyand on a regular basis , especially during live , dry weather . forefend overwatering , as this can head to root rotting . Q : What is the best room to pollinate African tusk cucumbers?A : Plant multiple plantsorintroduce pollinatorssuch as bee or butterfly to the garden to ensure proper pollination . Q : How long does it take forAfrican horned cucumbersto mature?A : African tusk cucumbers typicallytake 70 - 80 mean solar day toreach maturityfrom seed . Q : Can I run through the peel of African horned cucumbers?A : Yes , the cutis ofAfrican horned cucumbersis edible , but it can beslightly acerbic . Manypeople preferto take away the skin before eating the yield . Q : What is the nutritionary value of African horned cucumbers?A : African horned cucumbersare agood sourceof vitamin C , potassium , and fiber . They also contain antioxidant and anti - rabble-rousing compounds .
