Japanese method of growing cucumbers on sawdust

The Japanese method of growing cucumbers using sawdust is a reliable and simple way to germinate seeds. Even a novice gardener can handle this cultivation technique. The resulting seedlings are strong and grow quickly. By following the rules developed by agronomists and understanding the specifics of the sawdust method, you can increase seed germination and protect the delicate root system from damage.

The essence of the sawdust growing method

Before you begin germinating cucumber seedsTo do this, you need to prepare sawdust and a container. The sawdust should be aged, preferably from deciduous wood. Fresh sawdust or sawdust from any slab material, such as chipboard, is not suitable for this method. The stages of germination of planting material:

• sawdust is doused with boiling water;
• the planting container is filled halfway with still hot sawdust (a layer of at least 7 cm);
• the swollen mass is lightly compacted and leveled;
• while the sawdust is still warm, the planting material is smoothed out on top;
• the seeds are sprinkled with dry shavings;
• The container is covered with transparent glass or film and placed in a warm place.

Place the container in a bright spot. When the soil substitute dries out, water it with warm, settled water, avoiding overwatering the seedlings. Open the plastic film several times a day, which helps strengthen the plants' immune system. Many gardeners move the seedlings to a greenhouse or leave them on a windowsill during the day. When the first shoots appear, remove the covering.

Planting seedlings in open ground This is done very early – literally two weeks after the seedlings emerge. Preparing the beds is no different from traditional cucumber cultivation. The seedlings are transplanted carefully, trying to remove as much sawdust from the root system as possible. To achieve this, thoroughly soak the containers with warm water before planting, then carefully lift the seedlings out of the sawdust. Any roots clinging to the roots are left behind.

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Advantages of technology

The main advantage of planting cucumbers is the constant optimal temperature and air circulation provided by the sawdust substrate. The seedlings won't get cold or overheated, preventing them from rotting. Planting cucumbers in sawdust prevents damage to their delicate root system. Other advantages of this method include:

• absence of harmful microorganisms in sawdust;
• the light structure of the shavings promotes rapid growth of the root system;
• loose material can maintain the required moisture level for a long time;
• absence of weeds in sawdust;
• emergence of early shoots;
• Seedlings grown in this way are rarely susceptible to diseases.

Growing cucumbers in sawdust makes gardening easier: the planting material doesn't need to be disinfected or sanitized. This allows for a high-quality, healthy harvest 2-3 weeks earlier. Growing cucumbers in sawdust is very convenient for indoor use. The Japanese method of growing cucumbers in sawdust is a relatively new approach suitable for all varieties of cucumbers. While the Japanese method is straightforward, achieving the best results requires care and high-quality sawdust.