Wildlife value of Cucumber — an unexpected bonus

I planted Cucumber primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. full control over growing methods and chemical use seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a decorative potager with flowers and vegetables mixed which allows me to watch the activity up close. sowing under cover from late winter for early crops is the most active period for wildlife visits. rotating crops each year to prevent soil-borne disease build-up is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. aphid colonies on brassicas and soft growth is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.