National Pickling Cucumber

National Pickling is a classic heirloom cucumber bred for pickling, developed by the National Pickle Packers Association to fit perfectly in a jar. Plants produce an abundance of 5 to 7 inch cucumbers with few small seeds that do not affect texture. They are excellent fresh, in salads, or juiced, and exceptional as dill or bread-and-butter pickles, with strong tolerance to powdery mildew.

At a glance

• Variety: National Pickling cucumber (Cucumis sativus)
• Type: Heirloom pickling, open-pollinated, non-GMO
• Fruit: 5 to 7 inches, few small seeds
• Sun: Full sun
• Traits: High yield, strong powdery mildew tolerance
• Use: Pickling, fresh eating, juicing

Best for

• Dill and bread-and-butter pickles
• Whole or wedged jar pickling
• Fresh salads and snacking
• High-yield canning gardens
• Areas prone to powdery mildew

How to grow

Direct sow after the soil has warmed and frost has passed, or start indoors a few weeks early. Space plants about 12 inches apart in full sun with rich, well-drained soil. Keep evenly watered and harvest often at pickling size to keep vines productive.

Flavor profile

Crisp and clean with a firm crunch that holds up beautifully in the brine.

About MIgardener

MIgardener is a Michigan-based family company offering affordable, non-GMO heirloom seeds and gardening supplies, with a mission to make growing your own food simple and accessible.