Gherkin Plants

Gherkin Plants FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Gherkin Plants in the UK. You can  contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Gherkin Plants

The best time to plant gherkin plants in the UK is in late spring, from May to June, when the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up. You can start seeds indoors in April to give them a head start and transplant them outdoors once the weather is consistently warm. Gherkins thrive in sunny, sheltered spots with well-drained, fertile soil.

How to Plant Gherkin Plants

To plant gherkin plants, choose a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained, fertile soil enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. If starting from seeds, sow them indoors in April in small pots about 1 cm deep and keep them in a warm, bright location. Once the seedlings are around 10–15 cm tall and the risk of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors in May or June. Space the plants 30–50 cm apart in rows or grow them against a trellis or support to maximise space and keep the fruits off the ground. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Feed with a high-potassium fertiliser during the growing season for better fruit production. Gherkins are typically ready for harvest within 8–10 weeks.

How long do Gherkin Plants take to grow

Gherkin plants typically take 8 to 10 weeks to grow and produce fruit after planting, depending on the variety and growing conditions. If starting from seeds, allow an additional 2 to 3 weeks for germination and seedling development before transplanting outdoors. With proper care, including regular watering and feeding, gherkins will thrive and provide a continuous harvest throughout the summer months.

Why Grow Gherkin Plants?

Growing gherkin plants is a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, crunchy, and flavourful gherkins straight from your garden. Homegrown gherkins are perfect for pickling, salads, and snacks, offering a fresher and more satisfying taste than store-bought options. They are easy to grow and highly productive, providing a plentiful harvest throughout the summer with minimal space, especially when grown vertically on a trellis. Gherkin plants are also a great choice for gardeners looking to reduce waste, as they allow you to pick just the amount you need. Additionally, growing your own gherkins ensures they are free from unwanted chemicals, making them a healthy and sustainable addition to your garden.

Where can you grow Gherkin Plants?

Gherkin plants can be grown in a variety of locations, provided they have access to full sun and are planted in well-drained, fertile soil. They thrive in vegetable gardens, raised beds, or large containers with a trellis or support for their vines to climb. Gherkins do well in greenhouses or polytunnels, where warmer conditions can boost their growth and yield. They are also suitable for small spaces, such as patios or balconies, as long as they are grown vertically. Ensure the growing area is sheltered from strong winds, as gherkin plants prefer warm, stable conditions to produce an abundant harvest.

Why Buy Gherkin Plants from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Gherkin Plants and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.