[mobilephil]

I am growing cucumbers for the first time.  Just got an allotment and have erected a polytunnel.  Growing variety Carmen in Greenhouse Sensation Quadgrow.  Have strong healthy plants with lots of mini cucumbers either in flower or developing.  Some of the lower cumbers are around 10-12" in length however are only around thickness of my finger in diameter (like long gherkins).  Is this normal?  Do they fatten up after putting on length?  Or is there a problem?

[sunshineband]

They grow to nearly their length and then fatten up, so no need to worry, mobilephil. Sounds as though they are doing just fine.

Cucumbers do need food though if they are to keep flowering: tomato fertiliser or home made comfrey feed does the job 

[mobilephil]

They grow to nearly their length and then fatten up, so no need to worry, mobilephil. Sounds as though they are doing just fine.

Cucumbers do need food though if they are to keep flowering: tomato fertiliser or home made comfrey feed does the job 

Ah, thanks for that.  They are getting plant food, presently 1/2 strength though looking at the no. of cucumbers on them I think I will up it to full strength next time I fill the tank.

[sunshineband]

If you are feeding them every time you water, I would leave it at half strength. This will be enough for them, I'm sure 

[Yorkie]

If you are feeding them every time you water, I would leave it at half strength. This will be enough for them, I'm sure 

I agree - if you over feed, it can prevent the plant taking up essential nutrients and thereby lead to a deterioration in its overall health.

[mobilephil]

Just picked my first homegrown cucumber a little beaut at 12.5 inches.

[Aunt Sally]

Home grown cucumbers and tomatoes are a joy

The make the shop bought, hydroponically grown ones seem tasteless.