June 21, 2025, 10:11 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Cucumbers are among the most popular vegetables for home gardening. They grow quickly, often yield abundantly, and taste better than store-bought ones. However, mistakes in care can backfire and lead to undesirable results. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains why cucumbers might droop their leaves.
This year, I’m growing cucumbers not only in the greenhouse but also in pots. They are sheltered from the wind against the house wall and get plenty of morning sun. I’ve noticed that they let their leaves droop, even though I’m watering them adequately. What’s wrong with my cucumbers?
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Why Cucumbers Let Their Leaves Droop
As is often the case in gardening, there can be various reasons why cucumbers let their leaves droop. The first is the most unpleasant and should not be trivialized.
Cucumber Wilt
Cucumber wilt is a fungal disease that cannot be stopped. Once the cucumber is affected, it can only be disposed of in the trash. The fungus attacks the plant’s water-conducting vessels, causing them to clog. Despite moist soil, the cucumber no longer receives water and appears “wilted.”
Note: The plants usually recover at night. This is a typical phenomenon of the disease. It is due to the different water needs between day and night. During the day, the plant requires significantly more water in the sun and warmth. At night, however, the water demand is low.
First signs are wilted or yellow leaves. This is followed by wilted shoots, and eventually, the plant dies.
The Wrong Location
It doesn’t always have to be the worst-case scenario when cucumbers let their leaves droop. Sometimes the reason is simple and easy to fix–the wrong location, for example.
Cucumbers love the sun, but not too much. Sun protection is important. If the plant is in direct sunlight, like mine, it’s too warm for it, and it lets the leaves droop. No need to panic. You just need to quickly find a new location.
A drafty location can also cause the cucumber to feel uncomfortable and let its leaves droop.
Nutrient Deficiency
Cucumbers are heavy feeders and need a lot of nutrients to grow optimally. If they lack certain nutrients, it can show through drooping leaves. Nutrient deficiency can also lead to yellowish or even curled leaves. Fertilizer for cucumbers can be easily made at home or might already be available as a home remedy.
Water Shortage
Especially on hot days, water evaporates very quickly from cucumbers. Water shortage is indicated by drooping leaves. On particularly warm days, it is advisable to water the plant in the morning and evening.