I let cucumbers sit without water for 1-2 weeks. I’ve created a “tricky” plan, and I don’t worry about the harvest (the cucumbers don’t need watering).

While the idea of a no-watering cucumber plan sounds appealing, it’s crucial to understand that cucumbers are very water-dependent. Letting them sit without water for 1-2 weeks will almost certainly lead to a failed harvest. Here’s why and what’s likely happening:

Why Cucumbers Need Water:

• High Water Content: Cucumbers are mostly water. They need a consistent supply to grow large, juicy fruits.  
• Shallow Roots: Their root systems are relatively shallow, meaning they can’t access deep water reserves.  
• Transpiration: They lose a lot of water through their leaves, especially in hot weather.  

What Happens When Cucumbers Are Deprived of Water:

• Wilting: The leaves will quickly wilt and become stressed.
• Stunted Growth: The plant’s growth will be severely stunted.
• Small, Bitter Fruit: If any fruit does develop, it will likely be small, misshapen, and bitter.  
• Plant Death: In prolonged drought, the plant will die.

What’s Likely Happening in Your “Tricky” Plan:

• Existing Soil Moisture: Perhaps your soil retains a significant amount of moisture, or you’ve had recent rainfall that’s temporarily sustaining the plants. However, this is not sustainable for 1-2 weeks without replenishment.
• Deep Mulch: A very thick layer of mulch can help retain some moisture, but it won’t replace regular watering.
• Very Mature Plants: Extremely mature plants with well established root systems, in perfect soil conditions, and cooler weather conditions, could survive longer than normal without water. But 1-2 weeks is still a very long time.
• You are mistaken about the health of the plants: It is possible that you are not noticing the negative effects of the lack of water.

Sustainable, Low-Water Cucumber Growing:

If you want to reduce watering, consider these methods:

• Deep Watering: Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root growth.
• Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Drip Irrigation: Use drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots.  
• Soil Amendments: Incorporate organic matter like compost to improve water retention.
• Choose Drought-Tolerant Varieties: Some cucumber varieties are more drought-tolerant than others.  

In conclusion:

While there are methods to reduce watering, completely eliminating it for 1-2 weeks is not a viable option for healthy cucumber production. Your “tricky” plan is likely relying on temporary soil moisture, and your plants will suffer without regular watering.