Shimshon Cucumber on a white background.
Cucumber Seeds, Shimshon
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Three shimshon Cucumbers with a ruler to show size on a white background.
A gardener holding a quartet of Shimshon Cucumbers against foliage as a background.
A single Shimshon Cucumber on a white background.
Shimshon Cucumber on a white background.
Cucumber Seeds, Shimshon
A gardener&
Three shimshon Cucumbers with a ruler to show size on a white background.
A gardener holding a quartet of Shimshon Cucumbers against foliage as a background.
A single Shimshon Cucumber on a white background.

Cucumber Seeds,
Shimshon

21 ReviewSKU: #CU121Min. seed count: 25
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Description

(Cucumis sativus). Delicious, super hardy and drought tolerant cucumber that was bred in Israel by the late Ezra Gallon, a well-respected plant breeder who worked with the Weizmann Institute. He named the variety for Samson the Hero, a nod to its strength and resilience in growing despite tough conditions. Fruit is 5 to 5.5 inches long and crispy, crunchy, and sweet.

Growing Tips: Shimshon cucumber is a highly productive, early-bearing variety from Israel, known for its uniform, crisp fruits with excellent flavor and texture. It thrives in warm, sunny conditions with well-drained, fertile soil and consistent moisture. Ideal for both slicing and pickling, Shimshon cucumbers benefit from trellising to improve airflow, prevent disease, and produce straighter, cleaner fruits throughout the growing season.

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
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Sow Shimshon cucumber seeds after the last frost, once soil temperatures have reached at least 65°F. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before transplanting into warm soil. Ensure that all danger of frost has passed before planting outdoors, as cucumbers are frost-sensitive. 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

Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in rich, well-drained soil amended with compost. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows spaced 3–4 feet apart. For best pollination and higher yields, plant in groups of two or three and thin to the strongest seedlings. Keep the soil evenly moist during germination. Provide trellises or other supports for vertical growth to save space and improve fruit quality.

How to Grow

Water consistently, especially during flowering and fruiting stages, to prevent bitterness. Apply mulch to maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every few weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea. Harvest regularly to encourage continued fruit production. Shimshon cucumbers perform best in warm, sunny weather with good airflow to prevent powdery mildew and other foliar diseases.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow several fruits to fully ripen and turn yellow on the vine.
  • Harvest overripe cucumbers and cut open to scoop out the seeds.
  • Place seeds in water for 2–3 days to ferment and remove the gelatinous coating.
  • Rinse thoroughly, dry on a screen or paper towel, and store in a cool, dry place.
  • Label and store seeds in airtight containers; viable for up to five years.

FAQ

What makes Shimshon cucumber special?

Shimshon is an Israeli variety bred by the late Ezra Gallon, valued for its uniform, crisp, sweet fruits of 5 to 5.5 inches and for its drought tolerance and resilience in tough conditions. It is ideal for both fresh eating and pickling, with a consistently mild flavor.

Can I grow Shimshon cucumbers in containers?

Yes. Choose a large container (at least 5 gallons) with good drainage and a trellis or cage for vertical support. Keep soil evenly moist and feed regularly for best results.

Why are my Shimshon cucumbers turning bitter?

Bitterness often results from heat or water stress. Maintain consistent moisture, provide mulch, and harvest regularly to ensure tender, mild-tasting fruits.

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