Cucumis sativus

Available for purchase from 1 July 2025  

The Arkansas Little Leaf cucumber is a compact and prolific variety developed by the University of Arkansas in 1991. This open-pollinated cultivar is well regarded for its small, bushy growth habit and its ability to thrive in high-density plantings and limited-space gardens. Originally bred for commercial and home growers, its vines feature smaller-than-average leaves, making the fruit easier to spot and harvest. It’s a standout for being parthenocarpic, which means it can set fruit without pollination, a feature particularly valuable in greenhouse or row-covered environments.

Perfect for both pickling and fresh eating, Arkansas Little Leaf produces blocky, emerald green cucumbers that range from 7 to 12 cm in length. The crisp, mild flesh is well-suited to a variety of culinary uses, whether you’re slicing them fresh for salads or fermenting them for crunchy pickles. Their small size and uniformity also make them ideal for whole pickling in jars. This variety is highly praised for maintaining production through heat and disease pressure, contributing to its popularity among market gardeners and home growers alike.

Seeds should be sown 2 cm deep in seedling trays, indoors, before the last frost. For optimal germination, use the Livingseeds Germination Mix and Livingseeds Heating Pads. Using seed-starting methods such as the Potmaker or Plugmaster helps with smooth transplanting. Expect germination in 5 to 10 days when kept between 21–27 °C.

Once seedlings are established and any risk of frost has passed, transplant them into well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny location. Vines benefit from trellising or support; this helps to increase air circulation, preventing fungal and bacterial diseases and makes harvesting easier. Apply Talborne Organics VitaGrow at transplanting and switch to Vita Fruit and Flower during the flowering and fruiting stages to maximise yield and fruit quality. Fruits are ready for harvest around 55 days from sowing. Regular picking will promote continued production.

Standard packet contains approx. 15 seeds

Petite packet contains approx. 5 seeds