Cucumis sativus (Gherkin) Dafne F1 – Early-ripening and productive mini-cucumber

Cucumis sativus (Gherkin) Dafne F1 is a high-quality F1 hybrid specifically developed for growers who want an early-maturing, compact, and reliable gherkin. This variety is known for its uniform, firm, and crisp fruits, ideal for fresh consumption, pickling, or commercial cultivation.

The fruits of Dafne F1 are small, cylindrical, and dark green, 8–12 cm long. They have a crunchy texture and a mild, fresh flavor without bitterness, making them perfect for pickling, salads, and as a healthy snack.

Compact growth and early harvest

Gherkin Dafne F1 develops compact, strong plants that are easy to manage. This makes the variety suitable for greenhouses, tunnels, and open ground, as well as for smaller vegetable gardens or potted plants.

The plants are early-maturing: the first gherkins can be harvested shortly after planting. Thanks to consistent and efficient fruit set, Dafne F1 delivers a high yield throughout the growing season. Its compact growth allows for planting several plants close together without sacrificing productivity.

Excellent taste and versatile applications

Dafne F1 berries have a mild, fresh flavor and a crunchy texture. The small, soft seeds provide a pleasant texture, making them suitable for a variety of uses:

• Fresh consumption and salads

• Preserving and pickles

• Healthy snacks and appetizers

• Commercial sale as market-fresh gherkin

Their uniform size and consistent quality also make Dafne F1 gherkins popular with growers who want to sell their harvest directly or process it into pickled products.

Strong plants and disease resistance

Dafne F1 is a robust F1 hybrid with improved resistance to common cucumber and gherkin diseases such as:

• Powdery mildew

• Downy mildew

• Cucumber viruses

Thanks to these characteristics, the plants remain healthy and productive for longer. The variety responds well to heat and regular watering, guaranteeing a stable harvest, even in changing weather conditions.

The compact, strong plant shape makes vertical cultivation easy, while fruit set remains high.

Cultivation advice for optimal harvest

To get the most out of Cucumis sativus Dafne F1, the following guidelines apply:

• Sowing: Sow indoors from April; plant out outdoors when the soil temperature is above 15°C.

• Location: Warm, sunny spot in a greenhouse, tunnel or open ground

• Soil: Humus-rich, airy and well-drained soil

• Water: Water regularly and evenly, preferably at the base of the plant.

• Support: Train the vines along ropes or nets for cleaner fruits

• Harvesting: Pick regularly at 8–12 cm length for optimal taste and texture

Conclusion

Cucumis sativus (Gherkin) Dafne F1 is a compact, early-maturing, and productive gherkin that's perfect for home gardeners, small commercial growers, and organic gardens. With strong plants, uniform fruits, and excellent flavor, Dafne F1 is ideal for fresh consumption, pickling, and market sales. This variety combines modern F1 technology with ease of use and premium quality, making it a reliable choice for every gherkin enthusiast.