National Pickling Cucumber
Cucumis sativus subsp. sativus Seeds per pack ~ 40
Germination: 89% Oct 2025 Packed for 2026
The National Pickling Cucumber is a popular heirloom variety known for its suitability in pickling. It was developed in the 1920s through a collaboration between the National Pickle Packers Association and seed companies to create a cucumber specifically tailored for commercial pickling purposes. The perfect pickle! Impressively prolific, these gorgeously blunt-ended pickling cukes average six inches, though we often harvest them smaller. Whether you’re snacking in the garden, tossing on salads or pickling a pint or filling your pantry, National Pickling will not disappoint you.
While primarily bred for pickling, the National Pickling Cucumber is versatile and can be eaten fresh. They are flavorful and slightly sweet, making them great for salads, snacks, or slicing. This variety is an excellent choice for home gardeners and small-scale farmers aiming for high yields of pickling-friendly cucumbers.
Days to Maturity: Approximately 50-55 days from planting.
Characteristics: These cucumbers are short and blocky, typically growing 4 to 6 inches long, with a uniform diameter. Their shape is ideal for fitting into jars. They have a dark green, slightly bumpy skin with faint stripes or specks. The texture ensures they hold brine well during the pickling process. The flesh is crisp and firm, with minimal seeds, making them perfect for crunchy pickles.
The plant is a vigorous vining variety that benefits from trellising but can also be grown sprawling on the ground. Known for high productivity, it produces a large quantity of cucumbers over a relatively long growing season.
Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun for optimal growth and yield. Well-drained soil, nutrient-rich soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Requires consistent moisture, especially during fruiting, but avoid waterlogging. Plants should be spaced about 12 inches apart in rows 3 feet apart or thinned to 2-3 feet when direct sown.
