The use of black polyethylene mulch prevents weed growth, which can be problematic because there are no herbicides registered for use on cucumbers in Croatia.
Weeds in the inter-row spaces can be mechanically removed if cucumbers are grown with supports. Alternatively, a total herbicide can be used, but it is crucial to protect the cucumbers well to prevent contact with herbicides based on the active ingredient glyphosate. Recently, cucumbers are grown exclusively on black mulched foil, eliminating the need for herbicides since weeds only appear in the strips between the foils.
For the cultivation of pickling cucumbers, it’s important to remember that they are harvested every other day. If it is necessary to use pesticides, those with the shortest pre-harvest interval should be chosen.
