A cucumber (from Latin "cucumis") is a widely cultivated plant in the gourd family Cucurbitaceae, which includes squash
Production of cucumbers and gherkins was 88 million tonnes worldwide in 2019, led by China with 80% of the total. Other major producers were Turkey (7%), United States (3%) and Russia (2%).
The cucumber is a creeping vine that bears cylindrical fruit with smooth, leathery skin. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Cucumbers are usually no more than 15 centimeters (6 inches) long. Some cultivars of cucumber grow up to 50 centimeters (20 inches) long and have large, yellow flowers.
Most modern cucumber cultivars grow on vigorous vines which need substantial support. They are the most heat-tolerant of all cucurbits, but require ample water to produce their crop in temperate climates. Land races are traditional types cultivated by indigenous peoples around the world since prehistory. Exact history of cultivation uncertain; probably descended from native North American wild "Cucurbita" gourds.
Non-selective herbicides are used to remove competing vegetation alongside cucumber vines (such as grasses, weeds, and other cucurbits). Nitrogen fertilizers were applied after harvesting the crop for dry matter production of cucumbers. Drip irrigation is also commonly used on cucumber greenhouses.
Climatic conditions during pollination determine the gender of flowers; very hot weather produces entirely female blossoms, which reduces fruit yield since only fully developed female blossoms produce fruit. Male blossoms contribute to blooms in following years but do not produce any fruit. The first cultivar of cucumber was reportedly produced in Britain in 1699, although this claim has been challenged; see below.
Cucumbers have been grown in Asia for thousands of years. The cucumber is mentioned in the Bible. It was also mentioned by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and other European cultures. Alexander the Great discovered cucumbers in India and brought them back to Greece. Christopher Columbus introduced cucumbers to America on his voyage to the New World.
The first modern commercial cucumber harvest occurred in 1797 in France. A cucumber is a member of the gourd family that includes squashes and pumpkins. Cucumbers are usually eaten raw but can also be cooked. They are a good source of vitamin C and water. Cucumbers can be found at most grocery stores. There are many different types of cucumbers, including English cucumbers, Kirby cucumbers, and pickling cucumbers.
Cucumbers are a popular vegetable in many parts of the world. In the United States, they are usually eaten as part of a salad or as a side dish. Cucumber sandwiches are a popular snack in Britain. In India, cucumbers are often used to make raita, a yogurt-based dish that is served with rice or roti. Cucumber juice is also popular in India.
The history of the cucumber is unknown, but it is thought to have originated in North America. Christopher Columbus introduced cucumbers to Europe on his voyage to the New World.
See here: Latest prices of cucumbers in the world