Tickled About Pickles: The Story of Cucumbers in North Carolina
Cucumber production is an important part of North Carolina’s agriculture economy. The state ranks fifth in the nation for cukes, with Sampson County leading production statewide.
While cucumbers can be grown in any part of the state, cucurbit plants love the loamy, sandy soil found in Eastern North Carolina. Between 6,000 and 7,000 acres of North Carolina farmland are dedicated to growing cucumbers especially for the production of pickles.
Some 149 million pounds of cucumbers are harvested in North Carolina each year.
Jonathan Schultheis, professor and vegetable production specialist with NC State Extension, takes Homegrown on the farm in this episode to provide an overview of N.C. cucumber operations and how those crispy cukes get from the farm to our fridge. He also offers a sneak peek at the future of seedless cucumber production, thanks to research being conducted by NC State Extension.
Want to try growing cucumbers or making pickles at home? Check out the latest Homegrown In the Garden and In the Kitchen videos, and enjoy the DIY satisfaction of growing and pickling your own tangy treat.
For more expert advice from NC State Extension, check out the resources below.
