Crystal Apple Cucumbers with cucumber water on a white background.

Cucumber Seeds,
Crystal Apple

4.129 Reviews#CU149 · 25 seeds
Price
Regular price $3.50
Regular price $0.00 Sale price $3.50
Save $-3.50
/

FREE U.S. SHIPPING2-YEAR GUARANTEE

Description

(Cucumis sativus). The petite 3-inch oval fruit is a bright creamy white, about the size of a small apple. Sweet, mild, and very tender. This variety has become almost extinct in America. Introduced from Australia around 1930 from Arthur Yates and Co., though this type likely originated in China. So tender you can eat it skin and all!

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucumis sativus
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Vining
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–14
Days to Maturity
70–80
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–90°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Sow Crystal Apple cucumber seeds after the last frost, once soil temperatures remain above 65°F. Warm weather is essential for strong germination and growth. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks early and transplant after danger of frost passes. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in fertile, well-drained soil amended with compost. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows or hills spaced 3–4 feet apart. For vertical growth, train vines up a trellis to improve air circulation and fruit quality. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to one or two vigorous plants per hill after true leaves develop.

How to Grow

Maintain even moisture throughout the growing season, watering at the base to prevent leaf diseases. Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Feed with a balanced organic fertilizer or compost tea every few weeks. Harvest cucumbers when they reach 2–3 inches in diameter, while skins are still tender. Frequent picking prolongs the harvest and improves overall fruit quality.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow several fruits to fully ripen and turn yellow on the vine.
  • Harvest overripe cucumbers and cut open to scoop out the seeds.
  • Place seeds in water for 2–3 days to ferment and remove the gelatinous coating.
  • Rinse thoroughly, dry on a screen or paper towel, and store in a cool, dry place.
  • Label and store seeds in airtight containers; viable for up to five years.

FAQ

Are Crystal Apple cucumbers different from standard cucumbers?

Yes. Crystal Apple cucumbers are round, pale green, and have a crisp, sweet flavor. They’re less bitter than typical slicers and stay tender even when mature.

Can Crystal Apple cucumbers be grown in containers?

Absolutely. Choose a container at least 12 inches deep with good drainage, and provide a trellis for climbing. Container-grown plants need regular feeding and consistent watering.

How do I keep Crystal Apple cucumbers productive all season?

Harvest fruits regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Keep soil moist, feed with compost or fertilizer, and remove yellowing leaves to promote new growth.

Browse our full range of cucumber seeds.

Customer reviews

4.1 / 5 29 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Very heavy producer: Once it starts, dozens of cukes from a few vines all season.

  • Crisp fresh or pickled: Mild and crisp fresh; makes excellent fermented pickles.

  • Pick golf-ball size: Harvest at 2 to 3 inches; the skin toughens as they grow.

  • Hardy vines: Shrugs off heat, pests, and rough weather once established.

  • Heads up: Many find them bitter; pick small, peel, or rub the cut ends.

More to grow!

See all Cucumber Seeds