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Description
Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon is a variety of cucumber that produces small, round, yellowish-green fruits. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family and is commonly known as lemon cucumber or crystal apple cucumber. This cucumber variety has a mild, sweet flavor and is often used in salads or as a snack. It is an easy-to-grow plant that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Cucumis |
Appearance
Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon has a compact, bushy growth habit and can reach a height of up to 2 feet. The leaves are medium green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The fruits are small, round, and have a diameter of 2-3 inches. They have a yellowish-green skin that is thin and tender. The flesh is crisp and juicy with a mild, sweet flavor. The plant produces both male and female flowers, and the fruits are ready to harvest in about 60 days.
Care Guide
Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires regular watering and fertilization. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-11. Here are some care tips to keep in mind:
- Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks.
- Plant the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they germinate.
- Provide support for the plant to climb if grown vertically.
- Harvest the fruits when they are firm and have a bright yellow-green color.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids
- Cucumber beetles
- Spider mites
- Cucumber mosaic virus
- Downy mildew
- Powdery mildew
To prevent infestations and diseases, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests, and remove infected plant material to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon is native to Asia and is widely cultivated in many parts of the world. It grows best in warm, sunny climates and can be grown in both indoor and outdoor environments. The plant is adaptable and can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon in a container?
A: Yes, Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and has adequate drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cucumis Sativus Crystal Lemon plant?
A: You should fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I know when the fruits are ready to harvest?
A: The fruits are ready to harvest when they are firm and have a bright yellow-green color.
Q: How do I prevent cucumber beetles from damaging my plant?
A: You can prevent cucumber beetle infestations by using insecticidal soap or neem oil and by removing any infected plant material.
Related Plants
- Cucumis Sativus (common cucumber)
- Cucumis Anguria (West Indian gherkin)
- Cucumis Melo (melon)
- Cucurbita Pepo (pumpkin)
References
- University of Minnesota Extension. (n.d.). Growing cucumbers in Minnesota home gardens. Retrieved from https://extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-cucumbers-minnesota-home-gardens
- Burpee. (n.d.). Crystal Apple Cucumber. Retrieved from https://www.burpee.com/vegetables/cucumbers/cucumber-crystal-apple-prod001301.html
- Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). Lemon Cucumber. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/product/lemon-cucumber/
