Cucumber Seeds,
Ancash Market

4.812 ReviewsSKU: #WW127Min. seed count: 25
Price
Regular price $4.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $4.00
Save $-4
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.

Description

(Cucumis sativus). A Peruvian treasure that was collected in Chacas, Peru, by the late pepper historian Jean Andrews. This landrace traces its ancestry to cucumbers brought from Spain in the 1500s. It’s also known as Pepino Criollo Chacasino or Ancashino. It has been carefully selected for its resistance to pests and mildew. Grown in the cool climate of the high Andes, this cucumber is especially suited to cooler parts of the U.S. and will remain productive all season if grown on trellises. The cucumbers are best when harvested 6 inches long.

Growing Tips: Ancash Market cucumbers thrive in warm, sunny conditions with well-drained soil and consistent watering. Ideal for both open ground and trellising, they yield tender-skinned fruits prized in Andean markets. Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Trellising supports air circulation, reducing disease. Keep an eye out for pests like cucumber beetles and aphids; organic controls are effective. Harvest frequently to maintain production. Some afternoon shade is beneficial in the hottest summer weather.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis sativus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–14
Days to Maturity
55–65
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
12–24 in. (trellised) 36–60 in. (on ground)
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow Ancash Market cucumber seeds outdoors after the last frost date, once soil temperatures consistently stay above 70°F. In cooler regions, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before transplanting. Selected in the cool high Andes, these cucumbers suit cooler parts of the U.S. well, though they are still frost-tender and should not be planted too early. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-draining soil. Enrich beds with compost or aged manure before planting. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep directly in the soil. Space seeds 12 to 24 inches apart in rows, grow on a trellis to maximize airflow and minimize space usage. Water gently but thoroughly after sowing.

How to Grow

Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged; cucumbers dislike drought stress and soggy conditions alike. Water at the base of the plant to prevent foliage diseases. Fertilize with a balanced, organic fertilizer every few weeks. Regular harvesting encourages further fruit production. Trellised vines may need gentle guidance as they climb.

How to Save Seeds

  • Select disease-free plants for seed saving.
  • Allow fruits to fully ripen on the vine (they will turn yellow or orange).
  • Scoop out seeds and pulp into a jar or bowl with water.
  • Ferment at room temperature for 2–3 days, stirring daily.
  • Rinse seeds thoroughly and dry on a screen or paper towel for 1–2 weeks.
  • Store in a cool, dry place in a labeled and dated airtight container.

FAQ

Do Ancash Market cucumbers need a trellis to grow?

While not required, trellising improves air circulation, makes harvesting easier, and reduces risk of fruit rot. It’s especially beneficial in smaller gardens or areas with high humidity.

Can I grow Ancash Market cucumbers in containers?

Yes, Ancash Market cucumbers do well in large containers with good drainage. Choose a container at least 12 inches deep and use a cage or trellis to support vine growth.

What makes Ancash Market cucumbers different from other varieties?

They are renowned for their crisp texture, mild flavor, and thin skin, making them ideal for fresh eating. Selected in the cool climate of the high Andes, they are especially well suited to cooler parts of the U.S. and appreciate some afternoon shade during the hottest summer weather.

Browse our full range of cucumber seeds.

FREE SHIPPING IN THE U.S.A.
Alternate domestic shipping options available at checkout.
You may also like