Whole and sliced Boston Pickling Cucumbers on a white background.
Boston Pickling Cucumbers in pickle jar.
Boston Pickling Cucumber with foliage and blossoms.
Boston Pickling Cucumbers with jar.
Cucumber Seeds, Boston Pickling
Whole and sliced Boston Pickling Cucumbers on a white background.
Boston Pickling Cucumbers in pickle jar.
Boston Pickling Cucumber with foliage and blossoms.
Boston Pickling Cucumbers with jar.
Cucumber Seeds, Boston Pickling

Cucumber Seeds,
Boston Pickling

4.589 ReviewsSKU: #CU105Min. seed count: 25
Price
Regular price $3.00
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.00
Save $-3
/
Shipping calculated at checkout.
Description

(Cucumis sativus). An old heirloom dating back to 1880. Vigorous vines give large yields of smooth green fruit. It is excellent for pickles; very crisp and good quality. A very popular variety at the turn of the 20th century.

Growing Tips: Boston Pickling cucumbers are prized for their compact size, high productivity, and outstanding pickling quality. These vigorous vines benefit from trellising to enhance air circulation and reduce disease risk. Consistent watering and regular harvesting are key to a long and productive season. Thin, bumpy skin and dense flesh make these cucumbers ideal for crisp pickles or fresh snacking. 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
60
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow Boston Pickling cucumber seeds after your last spring frost, once soil temperatures are at least 70°F. In cooler zones, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before transplanting. This variety loves warmth and grows quickly in raised beds, containers, or garden rows with full sun exposure. 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 well-draining, fertile soil amended with compost or aged manure. Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep and space plants 12 to 18 inches apart in rows or hills. Install trellises or supports at planting time to guide vines and keep fruit clean. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during germination and early growth.

How to Grow

Water deeply and regularly, especially during flowering and fruit development. Apply mulch to maintain moisture and deter weeds. Fertilize with a balanced organic formula every few weeks. Trellising improves air circulation and makes harvesting easier. Pick cucumbers at 3–6 inches long for best pickling quality and to keep the plant producing abundantly.

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

Are Boston Pickling cucumbers only good for pickling?

While they’re ideal for making crunchy pickles due to their small size and firm texture, Boston Pickling cucumbers are also delicious fresh, offering a crisp bite and classic cucumber flavor.

Can Boston Pickling cucumbers be grown vertically?

Yes, trellising Boston Pickling cucumbers is highly recommended. It saves space, improves airflow, and helps produce straighter, cleaner fruits that are easier to harvest and less prone to disease.

How do I prevent bitterness in Boston Pickling cucumbers?

Ensure consistent watering and avoid letting fruits become overripe. Bitterness can also be reduced by growing in fertile soil and harvesting frequently, especially during hot, dry spells.

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