The Cornichon de Bourbonne, also known as the Parisienne Cornichon de Bourbonne, is a classic pickling cucumber with a rich history dating back to the 1800s. These dark green, small-spined, and seedless cucumbers are plentiful, producing an abundance of crunchy-sweet gherkin or Cornichon-sized fruits. For best results, wait until they are fully grown, no more than 2 inches long and the width of a child's finger, before harvesting. This particular variety of local pickling cucumber is remarkably robust, yielding large quantities of elongated and slender fruits adorned with spines and a delicate layer of hair. The flesh is firm and crisp, offering a satisfying crunch and a delightful taste. For a traditional pickling experience, opt for young cucumbers picked at the perfect time and preserved in vinegar. If left to mature, they can be enjoyed as a regular cucumber.
Scientific Name: Cucumis melo
Plant Life Cycle: annual
Optimal Germination Temperature: 20C
Germination time in days: 4-10 days
Indicative Days to maturity: 91 days
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil requirement: rich in organic matter, well drained, fertile
Sowing and cultivation: Sow seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost if you will be growing them in a heated greenhouse. Sow cucumber seeds on their side, 1–2 cm deep, in small pots. Keep them at 21°C . Or Sow directly outside after the last chance of frost has passed and the soil temperature is at 21 C.
