The first gherkins were obtained in France, then the geography of growing hybrid varieties expanded. Gherkins are small cucumbers measuring 3–9 cm, which are consumed fresh, but more often pickled. Canning reveals the main qualities of cucumbers: crispy flesh and piquant taste.
Inexperienced gardeners believe that unripe greens of any variety are gherkins. But that's not true. Gherkins are a separate variety with many subspecies. Cucumbers have a different composition and structure.
Popular hybrid varieties of gherkins
The length of real gherkins is 5–9 cm. The advantage of gherkin varieties is that there are no voids inside the fruit, and the flesh is dense and juicy. Thanks to this feature, the delicious crunch of cucumbers is obtained.
Parisian gherkin
An early maturing hybrid of a universal type, obtained by French breeders. Cylindrical cucumbers measure 6–9 cm, covered with pimples, and have light green stripes on the skin. The weight of a 10 cm fruit reaches 60–80 g. At the fruiting stage, the crop is harvested daily. Since the hybrid is not self-pollinating, it is desirable to have bees in the greenhouse. Hand pollination is also used to increase yield.
Advantages:
- yield - up to 5 kg/m2;
- short growing season – 45 days;
- impeccable taste characteristics;
- resistance to fungal diseases;
- resistance to heat and drought.
Since the Parisian gherkin is a hybrid, in the second generation seed germination and yield decrease, and disease resistance decreases. Therefore, it is better to sow the seeds again every year.
Flaws:
- If harvesting is not done in a timely manner, the shape of the fruit is lost.
Parisian gherkins are a universal species, that is, the variety is grown in open and closed ground, in a greenhouse, and on the balcony.
Diva F1
The early ripening hybrid was obtained by Moscow breeders. Refers to universal varieties. The bushes are vigorous and climbing. Height - 175–180 cm. The trunk is flexible and thin. The fruits are elongated, slightly rounded, but the ends are narrowed. Dimensions - up to 12 cm. Weight of one cucumber - up to 100 g. The seeds are tiny, the skin is dark green in color.
Advantages:
- early ripening - 35–45 days;
- high yield – up to 28 kg/m2;
- perfect presentation;
- lack of bitterness;
- self-pollination;
- resistance to infections;
- minimal care;
- resistance to temperature changes.
Hybrids are stored in a dark, cool room and transported without waste.
Flaws:
- intolerance to windy weather;
- reduction in yield due to irregular harvesting of fruits.
Mels F1
An ultra-early ripening hybrid of gherkins for greenhouses and closed ground. The length of the cucumbers is up to 10 cm. The color is light green with slight pubescence. Up to 400 specimens are collected per season. The fruits are fragrant, dense, crispy.
Advantages:
- high yield – 40 kg/m2;
- early maturity - 36 days;
- resistance to viruses, olive spot, powdery mildew;
- impeccable presentation;
- perfect taste;
- absence of bitterness and emptiness;
- intensive fruiting;
- self-pollinating;
- long shelf life.
No deficiencies were found in the hybrid variety.
Patti F1
Gherkins are universal type. A non-capricious self-pollinating hybrid of Moscow breeders. Dark green cylindrical fruits. Dimensions - up to 10 cm, weight - 60–80 g. The flesh is crispy and sweetish.
Advantages:
- mid-season hybrid. Ripening time - 45 days;
- yield - 25 kg/m2;
- impeccable taste characteristics;
- highest level of transportability;
- resistant to cucumber diseases;
- invulnerable presentation;
- good quality product with proper care.
Disadvantages: short shelf life.
Customers like that the cucumbers are the same size. This helps with marinating.
Micron F1
Bee-pollinated universal hybrid. The bushes are medium-sized, not branched. Small leaves. Cucumbers reach a length of 8 cm. The weight of the fruit is 60–80 g. The green, dense skin has tubercles that protect the fruit from damage. The shape of cucumbers is similar to an ellipse. Fruiting continues for three summer months. Even if harvesting is delayed, the fruits do not outgrow.
Advantages:
- early ripening hybrid – 38 days;
- average yield – 15 kg/m2;
- invulnerable to cucumber diseases;
- impeccable taste;
- attractive presentation.
The variety appeared recently, but gardeners have not yet noticed any shortcomings. Recommended for growing in a greenhouse.
Madame F1
A mid-season hybrid that gardeners consider the most suitable for open ground. Pollen carriers are various insects. The fruits are cylindrical in shape, small in size and weighing up to 80 g. The skin is thin, imperceptible to the taste. This is a significant help when marinating.Gardeners are happy to sow a hybrid, and even the care requirements are not a hindrance.
Advantages:
- mid-season hybrid – 45 days;
- yield – 15 kg/m2;
- impeccable taste properties;
- resistance to most cucumber diseases;
- attractive presentation.
The hybrid has no disadvantages as such, other than the need for regular maintenance.
Friendly family F1
The hybrid is picky about growing conditions, but thanks to its yield and taste, it is liked by lovers of small cucumbers. The variety requires areas protected from the wind and an air temperature at sowing of 17 °C. The length of the fruit is 6–10 cm. High yield, delicate skin and attractive appearance attract gardeners. Moreover, the hybrid does not require large areas.
Advantages:
- yield – 3.5 kg/m2;
- ripening period – 45 days;
- pleasant aroma;
- resistance to pests and diseases;
- lack of bitterness;
- attractive presentation.
The variety is recommended for open ground and greenhouses.
Flaws:
- rapid outgrowth;
- lack of independent pollination.
Among gardeners and buyers, these 7 hybrid varieties are considered the best and are popular. In open areas, these gherkins are grown mainly in regions with warm climates. They are also recommended for greenhouses and window sills.
But to get a bountiful harvest you need to work hard. Only timely agrotechnical measures will make it possible to enjoy juicy and crispy cucumbers.
