I'm curious if anyone has ever experimented with mixing cucumber pollens to create hybrids. For example, could I combine Straight 8 pollen with something like National Pickling or Long Green? I'm wondering if it's a worthwhile experiment or just a mad scientist idea!
1 Answer
I haven't had any luck with cross-pollinating my tomatoes, even using an electric toothbrush, so I can't speak for cukes directly. But I’ve read that supermarket cucumbers are often cross-pollinated, which is why their seeds tend to be less viable if you plant them. However, tomatoes usually self-pollinate, making it harder to get crosses. Cucumbers have separate male and female parts, so crossing them should be easier.
That's interesting! Sounds like I’m on the right track with cucumbers since they can cross easily. Thanks for sharing your experience!