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English Telegraph Cucumber Seeds

"Heirloom, Burpless and Highly Parthenocarpic"

Sun: Full Sun

Days to Maturity: 60 - 70 Days

Length: 10 - 18 Inches

Heirloom: Yes

Packet: 10 Seeds

Price: $3.99

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Summary / History

HEIRLOOM - The English Telegraph cucumber in an ancient heirloom developed in Britain during the 1850s as a "forcing" cucumber, meaning it was bred to be grown in controlled, heated indoor environments to produce cucumbers out of season. This Victorian-era cucumber was developed to grow in the opulent, heated greenhouses of Victorian England's upper class. This cultivation method was used as a way to overcome England's cool, northern climate. The seeds would be planted in February and then transplanted into greenhouses, hothouses or hotbeds by mid-March for an early spring harvest. Year-round cultivation required significant resources, which is why the English Telegraph cucumber was a prime symbol of wealth. With its smooth, nearly spineless skin and mild, burpless flavor, it was a staple delicacy at high-society gatherings and upscale afternoon teas.

Plant Characteristics

The English Telegraph cucumber is a classic heirloom known for its long, slender shape and smooth, nearly spineless skin. The cucumbers grow up to 10-18 inches long and have thin, tender and dark green skin that doesn't require peeling before eating. They are mild, sweet and crisp without any bitterness, making them highly digestible. These burpless cucumbers have minimal seeds, often considered nearly seedless. English Telegraph cucumbers stay crisp and fresh longer than standard cucumbers, making them ideal for slicing, salads, snack trays and sandwiches. Typically reaching 5-8 feet long, the vigorous vines are perfect for greenhouses, polytunnels or trellised gardens. This variety is highly parthenocarpic, meaning it can develop cucumbers without pollination; this makes it incredibly reliable for indoor cultivation where pollinators are scarce. Best grown vertically on a trellis or netting to ensure the cucumbers grow straight and uniform. Ready to harvest in 60-70 days.

    • Quick Facts

    • Botanical Name: Cucumis Sativus


    • Life Cycle: Annual


    • Light Requirement: Full Sun


    • Planting Season: Warm Season


    • Plant Type: Creeping Vine Variety


    • Features: Heirloom, Burpless and Highly Parthenocarpic


    • Fruit Size: 10 - 18 Inches Long


    • Days to Maturity: 60 - 70 Days


    • Plant Spacing: 18 - 24 Inches


    • Planting Depth: 1/2 Inch


    • Sowing Method: Start Indoors, Direct Sow


    • Cold Stratification: No


    • Hardiness Zones: 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12


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