Growing a climbing cucumber and transforming the garden into a radiant oasis - this is a must for every gardener. The climbing cucumber (Akebia quinata) is a perennial plant native to both Asia and parts of North America. The chocolate-scented flowers are unusual among hardy perennials, and this attribute makes the flowering plant popular among growers. Akebia has shiny, dark green, oval leaves that grow in clusters of five. The drooping, three-petaled flowers appear in spring (March to May), sometimes followed by fruit resembling eggplant in late summer. It has edible fruits, but they are not very tasty - if you go to harvest them, you will find that they are reminiscent of kiwi, with tiny black seeds stuck in the pulp.
Growing climbing cucumber: instructions
The climbing cucumber grows quickly and vigorously and reaches a height of up to 130 cm in one growing season. This plant has no serious pest or disease problems. If you don't have Akebia asGrow ground cover plants, it needs a sturdy structure to support it while climbing. If you want to harvest the fruit, you should plant at least two vines to increase the chances of pollination and fruiting.
Consider the climbing cucumber's mature size when incorporating this plant into your landscaping. This is not a specimen that gracefully climbs up your mailbox. Although the plant is not clingy, you can pull it up a drainpipe or fence using heavy-duty twine or plastic netting to protect it from birds. Some gardeners also appreciate the rampant growth when Akebia is used as a ground cover to cover unsightly areas such as rock piles, tree stumps or manhole covers.
Sunny places are desirable
The climbing cucumber is shade tolerant and thrives in covered forest areas. However, the best flowering and fruiting is achieved when the plant is in full sun. So if you value it, you should plant Akebia in a location where it will receive at least six hours of sunlight daily.
What kind of soil does Akebia need?
Although the plant thrives in a variety of different soil compositions, a mixture of sand and clay with a high proportion of organic matter is ideal. Good drainage is also important.
Growing climbing cucumber: watering
Water weekly until the climbing cucumbers are established, then water during dry periods so that the plants receive at least an inch of water per week. The acebia is littletolerant to drought, so you can wait until the top inch of soil is dry to water.
Temperature and humidity
Akebia thrives best at moderate temperatures between 13 and 30 degrees Celsius. It may lose its leaves in harsh winter weather, but they will grow back in spring. Although it is not ideal for a humid environment, it can tolerate a certain amount of humidity.
Fertilize climbing cucumbers
The plant is a weak feeder and does not require any additional fertilizer. You can provide micronutrients to flowers growing in poor soil by mulching them with compost or well-rotted manure. In general, Akebia grows very luxuriantly without much effort.
Growing climbing cucumber: propagation
If you want to increase the population of climbing cucumbers in your landscape, you can use themPropagate cuttings, if you already have a plant. This is how it's done:
In spring, cut a cutting at least 10 cm long using clean scissors or secateurs. The cutting should come from the new spring growth of a climbing cucumber that is already established and has bloomed for at least a year.
Plant the cuttings in a small pot filled with moistened fine compost or another light planting medium. Place the pot in a moist and warm place until the cuttings take root, about two to three weeks. You can check rooting progress by lifting the cutting slightly - if you feel a slight resistance, it's a good sign that the roots are starting to grow. Once the roots have formed, transplant the cutting to its final location. Do your best not to disturb the roots afterward, as this could harm the plant.
Cut acebia
Since the plant is very vigorous, you will need to prune it frequently to keep it in check. You can cut the climbing cucumber to the ground in late winter, but you can also cut it back slightly during the season to keep it looking neat. You can use pruning shears to cut it back to the desired length, cutting off about half an inch above a leaf or leaf node.
How to make the plant bloom
The most important factor for a successfully flowering climbing cucumber isplenty of sunlight. If it is shaded by larger trees or buildings most of the day, you will have a hard time getting it to bloom. In addition to getting plenty of sunlight, you should also make sure your Akebia is getting the right nutrients. Phosphorus is also important for a successfully flowering plant. If you think your soil is deficient in this nutrient, you can fertilize them with a phosphorus-rich fertilizer mix or add some bone meal to the soil.
