1. Assuming cucumbers will climb on their own Although cucumbers are climbing plants, they may not initially crawl up a trellis without support.
You'll likely need to guide the vines by wrapping them around the trellis and providing extra support with string or twine when the plants are young
2. Using the wrong type of trellis Cucumbers prefer wire mesh or sturdy wood trellises that their tendrils can easily grasp. Avoid trellises that are too flimsy or have wide gaps the vines can't climb
3. Planting too close together There's a misconception that you can plant cucumbers closer together when growing vertically. However, the roots still need 8-12 inches of space to spread. Overcrowding leads to competition for nutrients and water
4. Neglecting to prune excess vines As the cucumber plants grow up the trellis, regularly trim back any overcrowded or damaged vines. This improves air circulation and prevents pests and diseases
5. Choosing the wrong cucumber variety Make sure you are planting a vining cucumber variety meant for trellising, not a bush variety. Bush cucumbers are better suited for growing in cages or on the ground
By avoiding these common mistakes and providing the right support, spacing and pruning, you can grow a bountiful crop of cucumbers vertically on a trellis with less disease pressure and easier harvesting.