 Today we are going to look at trellising cucumber vines. Benefits of trellising cucumbers include conserving garden space, ease of harvest, and disease prevention. These raised beds have four pickling cucumber plants spaced approximately two feet apart. After three weeks we will use tomato cages to trellis the vines. The cages should be placed between the two vines allowing the vines to grow up either side. Cucumbers produce tendrils, a natural vegetative growth that will grasp around objects to support the vine. Gently place the vines on the bottom ring of the cage. The tendrils can be wrapped or carefully tied around the cage frame. If tendrils are not present, wrap the vine carefully around the cage leg or bottom ring. Don't be alarmed if one vine is establishing quicker than the other. That is to be expected. Within a day or two you should begin to see the vine producing tendrils and climbing the trellis. There are other materials that can be used to trellis cucumbers such as framed chicken wire, string, or cattle fencing. These materials are often placed in the center of a raised bed and extend the length of the planted row or raised bed. Ideally we want you to use what is easiest and most convenient for you. For additional vegetable gardening resources visit our website at aces.edu or Facebook at Alabama Smart Yards dash Alabama extension.