The first insects to feed on young cucumbers are usually striped and spotted cucumber beetles. Insecticide applications are necessary. Ridomil needs to be applied at planting. It needs to be taken up by the roots to be effective against damping-off. This situation is more likely to occur on poorly drained soils.
Cucumbers have a high water requirement and are very susceptible to water stress.
Lack of water can result in reduced fruit quality and yields. Under normal conditions, the crop needs approximately 1 inch of water per week. Irrigation rate will depend on soil type but applications should not exceed 0.40 inch per hour for sandy soils, 0.30 inch per hour for loamy soils, and 0.20 inch per hour for clay soils. Higher rates will waste water and cause soil erosion and fertilizer runoff. Plastic Mulch and Drip Irrigation With more intensive management, plastic mulch and drip irrigation are worth the money and effort.