Sakamari F1 is a mid-early Japanese cucumber in the smooth English style. Dark green, straight fruits with very few spines, excellent fresh flavour and almost no bitterness. Vigorous, productive and disease-tolerant.
Ideal for greenhouses, polytunnels and other protected environments in Ireland. Performs especially well in cooler climates. Slice into salads, make raita, or eat straight from the vine with a pinch of salt.
ðą Sowing information
Sow March-July indoors in small pots or modules of freeâdraining compost. Place seeds on edge 2-2.5 cm deep, keep at 20-25 °C and give strong light to prevent legginess. Pot on and plant into large containers or greenhouse borders once sturdy and frost risk has passed.
âïļ Light exposure
Needs a warm, bright position such as a greenhouse, tunnel or sunny conservatory. Provide full light with slight shading during the hottest hours and ensure good ventilation for steady growth.
ð§ Water needs
Keep soil or compost consistently moist; never allow plants to dry out, especially during flowering and fruiting. Water at the base to reduce mildew risk and maintain humidity by damping paths in hot weather.
ðĄïļ Germination temperature & time
Germinates best at 20-25 °C, usually within 5-10 days. Use a heated propagator or warm windowsill for early sowings; later sowings can be made without extra heat.
ð Plant spacing & final size
Space plants 45-60 cm apart in borders or large containers (25-30 cm pots or grow bags). Train the main stem up a cane, string or trellis; pinch out the tip at the top support and manage sideâshoots for easy harvesting.
ðž Harvesting notes
Pick fruits when mediumâsized, firm and evenly green. Harvest regularly to encourage continuous flowering and fruiting throughout the season.
Bullet Technical Data
âĒ ðą Sowing depth: 2-2.5 cm, sown on edge
âĒ ð
Planting months (Ireland): Sow March-July; plant out May-June under cover
âĒ âïļ Light: Full light; slight shade in hottest sun
âĒ ðĄïļ Germination: 5-10 days at 20-25 °C
âĒ ð Plant height: 1.5-2.0 m+ when trained
âĒ ðŠī Spacing: 45-60 cm between plants
âĒ âģ Days to maturity: 55-70 days from sowing
âĒ 𧊠Seeds per packet: approx. 50
