Study and Determination of most suitable Planting Date under Polyethylene Semi Tunnel and Mulch Conditions in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Isfahan

One of the important factors for successful agriculture is suitable planting date. For off-season cultures، we need to protect plants from adverse environmental conditions. This experiment was conducted to determine the most suitable planting date for cucumber under semi tunnel and polyethylene mulch conditions at Kaboutar-abad research station of Isfahan during two years. The experimental design was a completely randomized block design in a split plot arrangement with four replications. Four planting dates (February 4th، February 19th، March 6th and March 21) formed the main plots and soil covers (semi tunnel with black and transparent polyethylene mulches and semi tunnel without mulch) formed the subplots. The results indicated that planting dates had no significant effect on yield but was effective in early maturing yield. Planting date of February 19th produced the highest yield (6. 4 T/ha). Soil cover had a significant effect on the traits. The highest yield، plant vegetative growth and early maturing fruits were obtained in semi tunnel with transparent mulch. Applying semi tunnel with transparent and black mulches during February 19th till March 6th had the best efficiency for producing out of season cucumber in Isfahan climatic conditions. Polyethylene mulches reduced the salt accumulation on furrows.