When to Plant Cucumber in Onslow County, NC
Cucumbers are a warm-season vine crop available in slicing and pickling varieties. They are prolific producers when given warmth, moisture, and a trellis to climb.
Onslow County, North Carolina is in USDA Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 21 and the first fall frost is November 18, giving you a growing season of approximately 242 days.
At an elevation of 541 feet, Onslow County receives approximately 46.8 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly clay loam soil. Summer highs average 90°F, providing good warmth for Cucumber during the growing season. Clay soil retains moisture well for Cucumber, but amend with compost to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Onslow County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Clay Loam
Soil pH
5.5-6.2
Drainage
Well Drained
Monthly Watering Guide for Cucumber
Cucumber needs approximately 1 inches of water per week (4.3" per month). Here's how your county's rainfall compares month by month.
| Month | Cucumber Needs | Rainfall | You Supplement | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Feb | — | 3.9" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
| Mar | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Apr | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| May | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jun | 4.3" | 4.2" | 0.1" | 💧 Light watering |
| Jul | 4.3" | 4.3" | 0" | ✅ Rainfall sufficient |
| Aug | 4.3" | 4.1" | 0.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Sep | 4.3" | 3.8" | 0.5" | 💧 Light watering |
| Oct | 4.3" | 3.1" | 1.2" | 💧 Light watering |
| Nov | 4.3" | 4" | 0.3" | 💧 Light watering |
| Dec | — | 4" | 0" | ❄️ Dormant |
Water needs are for active growing months only (Mar–Nov in Onslow County). Supplement amounts are based on average rainfall — actual needs vary with temperature, soil, and mulching.
Cucumber Planting Timeline — Onslow County, NC
Cucumber Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Start Indoors | February 21 | Feb 21 – Mar 7 |
| Transplant Outdoors | April 4 | Apr 4 – Apr 18 |
| Direct Sow | March 28 | Mar 28 – Apr 18 |
| Harvest | May 30 | May 30 – Jul 25 |
Plant 0.5" deep · 24" apart · Rows 48" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | — |
| February | Start Indoors |
| March | Start Indoors Direct Sow |
| April | Transplant Outdoors Direct Sow |
| May | Harvest |
| June | Harvest |
| July | Harvest |
| August | — |
| September | — |
| October | — |
| November | — |
| December | — |
Growing Conditions
☀️ Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
💧 Water
High — keep soil consistently moist
📅 Days to Maturity
50–70 days
🧪 Soil pH
Needs 6–7 · Your soil: N/A
🗺️ USDA Zone
Zone 8a
📆 Growing Season
242 days in Onslow County
Growing Tips for Onslow County
Direct sow after last frost or start indoors 3 weeks early. Provide a trellis for vining types to save space and improve air circulation. Harvest frequently to encourage production.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
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Cucumber in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Cucumber in Onslow County, NC?
Onslow County is in Zone 8a with an average last frost of March 21. Plan your Cucumber planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Onslow County, NC?
Onslow County, North Carolina is in USDA Hardiness Zone 8a. The average last spring frost is March 21 and first fall frost is November 18.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
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