Best Cucumber Fertilizers: Ratings, Reviews & Top Picks
Looking to start growing cucumbers in your garden, but aren't sure which fertilizers you should use? Finding a fertilizer with a perfect balance to grow cucumbers in your garden can be confusing due to the sheer number of options to pick from. In this guide, we review our favorite options that will help your cucumbers grow in a variety of conditions.
If you want to grow your own delicious cucumbers, there are some considerations to ponder. One of the primary considerations is choosing between the best cucumber fertilizers to ensure they grow and produce as much as possible.
Some fertilizers on the market are organic, and some aren’t. It’s up to the consumer to determine if they want to skip certain chemicals and other nutrients that can prove hazardous in some instances. Some fertilizer ingredients are illegal in some areas. The following list is the best cucumber fertilizers on the market, and many fertilizers can be used for a variety of different vegetables.
Keep in mind that some are for certain stages – either before you plant or during the fruiting and blooming cycles. Some may choose to use a combination of fertilizers to get the best results, or some choose to use an excellent all-around versatile fertilizer that’s good for all stages of growth and production.
At A Glance: Top Cucumber Fertilizers
Best Valuie
Miracle Gro Performance Organics
Organic Pick
Jobe’s Organic Vegetable Fertilizer
Budget Pick
Espoma Garden Tone Fertilizer
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Contents
Buyer’s Guide
If you plan to shop for fertilizers, there are some things to decide first. You want to determine if you’re going to grow a container garden, outdoors traditional garden, greenhouse garden, or hydroponic grow setup. Each has a specific need that requires a particular strategy for the best results. Fertilizer is crucial for good growth and provides the nutrients and minerals plants need to boost their growth and help produce more flowers and cucumbers.
Organic Fertilizer
Organic fertilizers are made from organic compounds and ingredients that are easily absorbed by the plants and don’t contain chemicals or phosphorus, which is used widely in growth boosters and other fertilizers on the market. Using this type of fertilizer is safe and effective; however, it may not provide the dramatic growth and production results some non-organic brands may provide.
Keep in mind that the non-organic types that offer the highest yields may also require more than one type of fertilizer and have specific use requirements and timing. Organic fertilizers are less labor-intensive and tend to be more affordable. It’s a good option for those who want to reduce the amount of work their garden requires and ensure local water supplies and plants and animals stay safe from contamination. It’s also best to pair it with an organic mulch prior to planting.
Non-Organic Fertilizer
Non-organic fertilizers are widely accessible and represent modern traditional fertilizers that have been used successfully for decades. However, there are some things to know about these products. First, they pose a danger to the user, kids, pets, and local water supplies. They do produce excellent results, however, if you use them the right way.
You’ll need to follow the indications precisely and avoid coming into contact with any of these formulas. They can penetrate the skin and make you ill. Additionally, suppose you have pets or livestock. In that case, you need to prevent them from wandering into the space and eating from the plants or walking where they can contact non-organic fertilizers.
These brands are usually cheaper, but they can also be quite expensive if you buy certain types designed for specific use. They come in granules, liquid, pellets, spikes, and powders. Determine which strategy you want to follow to find out what types you need or if you want a good all-in-one solution to make the process easier.
Price
The price for both organic and non-organic fertilizers can vary greatly. If you want to save money, you’ll want to get a granulated or powder variety that mixes into the soil and can then be applied every couple of months rather than weekly or using different types for each stage of growth. You might not get the incredible results you can get by using multiple types suited to each stage of life, but it will cost much less with good results.
Safety
Safety is the number one concern for people choosing a fertilizer. If you have kids and pets, you’ll want to choose an organic product that prevents them from becoming ill. It’s easy for kids and pets to wander into a garden and expose themselves to toxic elements in these products.
You’ll need gloves and tools to measure, mix, and apply these fertilizers. Additionally, you’ll need to store them in a safer area away from heat, light, and out of the reach of others. If you live in a space with wildlife, you would want to provide a barrier to help prevent them from entering the area.
Remember, if you don’t like to worry about the risks and safety protocol necessary for the non-organic variety, choose the organic versions that are safe for use in most containers or regular outdoor gardens. You’ll likely need special fertilizers for hydroponic gardens that are liquid-based and both organic and non-organic.
Top Fertilizers For Cucumbers
Now that you understand what’s important when choosing a fertilizer, it’s time to take a look at some of our favorite options. Depending on what your requirements are, many of the fertilizers below will do just fine for growing cucumber in most climates. Many of them are also interchangeable and will fertilize other vegetables like asparagus, or squash.
The type of Cucumber cultivar usually doesn’t matter, and most fertilizers will do just fine no matter the type you are wanting to grow. Let’s take a look at our favorite picks to fertilize this popular ground cover plant.
Jobe’s Organic Vegetable Fertilizer
- Organic Formula.
- Ideal for Vegetables.
- Easy to apply.
- Guaranteed to produce more veggies.
- OMRI Listed.
- Easy-dissolve granules.
- Budget-friendly.
Jobe’s Organics fertilizer is one of the top brand names on the market today. This formula is one of our favorite fertilizers for Cucumbers, but also for fertilizing Zucchini and other food-heavy plants. This formula provides plants with the nutrients they need while also offering protection from pests via the biozome in the product.
This application is excellent for the soil and is used before, during, after the peak growing period. Be sure to follow the indications listed on the instructions for soil applications before planting. Then use according to the indications for either potted plants or garden patches.
This particular type isn’t designed for hydroponic use. This fertilizer is a top choice for those who worry about their pets and children and want biodegradable and sustainable options to get the best cucumber harvest possible. You can get good results with less work if you choose this brand.
Pros
- Safe
- Sustainable
- Organic
Cons
- Not for hydroponic use
- Pricey
MasterBlend Vegetable Fertilizer
- Comes in bulk sizing.
- Multiple size options.
- 100% water soluble.
- Ideal for Vegetables.
- Easy to apply.
- Premixed & ready to use.
- Budget-friendly.
Master blend Tomato and Vegetable fertilizer are great for those who want to get more for their money. It comes in a 25-pound bag and mixes easily with water to produce just the right nutrient balance for vegetables. It’s a 4-18-38 blend ideal for outdoor gardens, container plants, and even hydroponic uses.
It’s ideal for producing more leaves and fruits. However, keep in mind that this isn’t an organic solution, and it’s important to follow the directions entirely. You can use this blend through the plant’s entire life cycle without considering the flowering and fruiting cycles.
Simply dilute the solution and spray on your plants for the best results. If the value is your concern and you want a flexible fertilizer that does it all, this is a great option. You might like this type if you want to get results without all the hard work.
Pros
- Large quantity
- Good for all applications
- Water-soluble
Cons
- Not organic
- Needs frequent application
Dr. Earth Organic Vegetable Fertilizer
- Organic Formula.
- Formulated for Vegetable Gardens.
- Easy to apply.
- Premixed & ready to use.
- Contains no GMOs.
- Contains no Chicken manure.
- Enriched with multi-minerals.
Dr. Earth Organic tomato, vegetable, and herb fertilizer is a popular brand that produces excellent results. This economical and easy-to-use fertilizer comes in a four-pound bag, which is ideal for outdoor gardens. It’s also one of our favorite choices for fertilizing pumpkins.
It provides the right level of nutrients and probiotics to both nourish plants and the soil. It’s filled with essential microbes and helps produce hearty crops, and encourages tastier vegetables.
This non-GMO product is safe for pets and people and is ideal for individuals who want a safe and effective way to grow great-looking and tasting cucumbers. Use this fertilizer before planting and through the growth cycle. Try this fertilizer for good results at an affordable price.
Pros
- Organic
- Easy to use
- Affordable
Cons
- No specific use directions
- Not completely water-soluble
Cucumber Fertilizer Greenway Bio
- Budget friendly.
- Formulated Specifically For Cucumbers.
- Easy to apply.
- Premixed & ready to use.
- Can be used hydroponically.
- Multiple minerals for plant growth.
- Proper balance for cucumbers.
If you want a fertilizer specifically designed for growing and producing cucumbers, you’ll want to try Greenway Biotech’s cucumber fertilizer. It is designed specifically for the growth and cultivation of dense crops of tasty cucumbers.
This product is completely water-soluble, and one pound makes 200 gallons of fertilizer. It’s a little more expensive than most other fertilizers; however, it goes a long way and lasts for smaller patches of cucumbers throughout a growing season.
The 8-16-36 balance has all the minerals and nutrients the soil and plants need to thrive at all stages of life. It’s also suitable for in-ground gardens, but it’s also ideal for hydroponics and container gardens. If you want a particular fertilizer for your cucumbers, this might be an excellent choice. If you’re focusing on your cucumber crop, this is a great choice.
Pros
- Specifically for cucumbers
- Water-soluble
- It goes a long way
Cons
- Pricey
- Small size
Joyful Dirt Premium Fertilizer
- Organic Formula.
- Multi-use Formula.
- Easy to apply.
- Safe for pets and kids.
- Nutrient density supports rapid plant growth.
- Can be used indoors and outdoors.
- Helps plants use less water.
Joyful Dirt Premium is an excellent all-around shaker fertilizer that is organic and easy to use. It’s slightly more expensive than other options, but what you’re paying for is an organic fertilizer that is safe and works well for all garden veggies.
Its small size and shaker can make it ideal for people with limited space and smaller gardens. It’s also suitable for older individuals who want to tend a smaller garden without dealing with heavy bags and mixing. Just shake and go, and it works its magic. Not only is it suitable for outdoor gardens, but it’s ideal for indoor container plants and more.
This product is safe to use around kids and pets and uses mycorrhizae, which reduces the need for extensive watering. It’s a great all-around choice for smaller gardens. This option might be a great choice if you want to get a great fertilizer that isn’t a hassle to use.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Safe
- Effective
Cons
- Lower quantity
- Pricey
Miracle-Gro Vegetable Formula
- Organic Formula.
- Formulated for Tomatoes and Veggies.
- Easy to apply.
- Can be used in-ground and containers.
- Feeds plants up to 3 months.
- Calcium helps strengthen cell walls.
- Budget-friendly formula.
Miracle-Gro is well-known for its Shake’ N Feed fertilizer. It’s found in most retail stores that carry garden supplies and is a proven brand for helping increase cucumber productions.
It’s also affordable and has excellent reviews from users. This product is a 4.5-pound container and goes a long way for smaller outdoor gardens. You can use it for more extensive container gardens too. You can use this once every three months, so it takes much of the work out of fertilizing your crops.
Not only does it support the plant, but it boosts the nutrients of the soil too. If you are interested in better-quality plants that produce better results, you might want to consider choosing this brand. If you want to go with a proven company that gives good results, you might try this product.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to find
- Use once or twice
Cons
- Non-organic formula
- Bulky container
Dr. Earth Home Grown Fertilizer
- Organic Formula.
- Human and feed grade ingredients.
- Easy to apply.
- Made sustainably in the United States.
- Non-GMO product.
- Promotes soil health.
- Handcrafted from human-grade ingredients.
Dr. Earth Organic 5 is a great all-around organic product for all herbs and veggies, including cucumbers. This brand is very affordable, and they give you a sizable four-pound bag of excellent fertilizer.
If you want an economical solution that is easy to use and powered for solubility, this might be a great solution. This one features pro-biopics and mycorrhizae for better soil quality and healthier plant production. You can use this product anywhere and get great results. It’s. Non-GMO without chicken manure or sludge, so you can feel confident about eating your garden-fresh cucumbers. If you want a powder fertilizer that is safe and effective, you might consider this brand.
Pros
- Powder
- Safe
- Great for soil
Cons
- Bulky
- Frequent applications
AgroThrive Organic Fertilizer
- Organic Formula.
- 3-3-2 NPK Liquid Formula.
- No synthetic chemicals.
- Requires mixing prior to use.
- Certified for Organic Gardening.
- WSDA Listed.
- OMRI Listed.
AgroThrive is an all-purpose liquid organic plant and vegetable fertilizer that is great for any application. Whether you’re growing a garden patch outside or using it for hydronic growth, you’ll get ideal results from this 3-3-3 solution. It’s even suitable for spraying on your lawn!
This product is 128 ounces of liquid that is moderately priced for its uses. There are no chemicals or harmful ingredients, and it has a multiple-release formula that is both fast-acting and slow-release for optimal results. Simply mix with water in the prescribed ratio and spray on the soil and plant.
It’s made from fish and grains and offers safety and effectiveness in a multi-purpose organic product. If you want an excellent multi-use fertilizer for use with any plant or veggies, this is it. This option is ideal for a smaller garden for people who want good results without safety concerns.
Pros
- Liquid
- Safe
- High quality
Cons
- Pricey
- Small quantity
Espoma Garden-Tone Plant Food
- Organic Formula.
- Formulated for warm-season veggies.
- Provides slow-lasting release.
- 100% Natural Organic Ingredients.
- Includes Bio-tone microbes in formula.
- Environmentally safe.
- No hazardous materials.
Espoma Garden-Tone is an organic fertilizer that is cost-effective and comes in a four-pound bag. When you want a safe fertile that is affordable and goes a long way, this is a good choice.
It’s perfect for veggies like cucumbers, squash, and herbs. It’s completely natural and offers a slow-release formula that gradually fertilizes the plant and encourages steady growth and production. To use this product, you mix it into the soil before planting.
Once you plant your veggies, you’ll use them seven to 10 days later. You only need to feed monthly up until August. If you want a hassle-free, safe fertilizer that provides excellent results, you’ll want to consider this option. This organic fertilizer is ideal and doesn’t require frequent application. You may want to look at other options if you are looking for an “all-in-one” fertilizer that will feed your flower garden as well.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Safe
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavy bag
- Specifically for veggies only
Miracle-Gro Performance Organics
- Organic Formula.
- Made specifically for edible plants.
- Safe for monthly use.
- 100% Natural Organic Ingredients.
- OMRI Certified Plant Food.
- Three different sizes.
- Budget-friendly.
Miracle-Gro Performance Organics is an excellent all-around fertilizer that is also ideal for growing cucumbers. It is easy to use granules that sprinkle in the soil and then release nutrients over time.
This fertilizer is a good choice for people who want a safe and economical option to help them get a better crop of cucumbers. This 2.5-pound bag goes a long way, and you don’t have to use it as frequently as some other variety’s. This product encourages a larger harvest and covers up to 220 square feet.
You only need to use this one every four to six weeks, making it ideal for busy gardens that don’t have time to fertilize regularly. This particular product is easy to find either in-store or online and is an excellent choice for those who have smaller gardens and want the ease of use combined with economy. This brand is easy to find and provides good use for those with gardens or container gardens.
Pros
- Easy to find
- Easy to use
- Safe
Cons
- Pricey
- Not water soluble
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use non-organic or organic fertilizer?
If you have children or pets that could be exposed to toxic non-organic fertilizer ingredients, you should opt for the organic versions. They work as well with less risk.
How often do I need to fertilize?
ach fertilizer has different use indications and requirements. Follow the specific directions for your needs for the best results.
Is liquid fertilizer better than granules?
The liquid is flexible with applications. However, you need to mix it according to the direction and reapply frequently. If you need something less labor-intensive, try using a granule.
Will fertilizing my cucumber cause them to grow faster?
Usually, yes, fertilization will lead to bigger and more bountiful harvests. If you end up with more cucumber than you have space for during harvest, you can always freeze the extras and use them for later.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the correct type to use between the best cucumber fertilizers can be a challenge, but the selection process becomes more manageable with the information and insight. Decide if you need a non-organic or organic fertilizer first. Then know what your soil requirements are for your location.
If you use potting soil, base the decision on the nutrient balance listed on the soil bags. This factor makes a big difference when choosing a type or brand. In addition, you’ll want to consider how much time and effort you can or want to put into your cucumber crop. If you have mobility or strength issues, you’ll want something small and easy to use that goes a long way.
Don’t forget to check out the prices on a few top options to get the best bang for your buck. Over time, you’ll figure out which options work best and can provide the best harvest in the end.