Wisconsin SMR 58, Heirloom Pickling Cucumber Seeds

Wisconsin SMR 58, Heirloom Cucumber Seeds — The University of Wisconsin’s Ever-Bearing Pickling Standard, Recommended by Utah State University

Wisconsin SMR 58 (Cucumis sativus) was developed by the University of Wisconsin in 1959 to be ever-bearing when picked regularly — and it delivers. Said to be the absolute best non-hybrid pickling cucumber, SMR 58 (Scab and Mosaic Resistant) produces massive yields of dark green, 2½ × 6 inch fruits with black spines, crisp fresh sweet flesh, and a mild flavor that is perfect for soaking up spices in the brine. Recommended by Utah State University. Ideal for northern climates and short growing seasons. Resistant to Cucumber Mosaic Virus and Scab. Deer resistant. 55–58 days.

Why Grow Wisconsin SMR 58?

• University of Wisconsin, 1959 — bred specifically for ever-bearing production when picked regularly
• Recommended by Utah State University — proven across climates and regions
• “The absolute best non-hybrid pickling cucumber” — massive yields, consistent quality
• Resistant to CMV and Scab — reliable disease resistance for home and market gardens
• Mild flavor perfect for soaking up spices — ideal pickling cucumber
• Ideal for northern climates and short seasons — 55–58 days to maturity
• Deer resistant — hairy leaves and black spines deter deer
• Open-pollinated heirloom — save seed year after year

In the Kitchen & Pantry

The mild, crisp, sweet flesh soaks up brine and spices beautifully — making SMR 58 the go-to for classic dill pickles, bread and butter pickles, and lacto-fermented half-sours. Pack whole into jars with dill, garlic, and brine. Slice thin for bread and butter pickles. Also excellent eaten fresh off the vine.

Growing Notes

Direct sow 1–2 weeks after last frost (preferred) or start indoors 3–4 weeks before transplanting. Sow 1 inch deep, 12–18 inches apart in rows 48 inches apart in rich, well-draining soil (pH 6.0–6.8) in full sun. Germination temperature 75–85°F. Optimal growing temperature 64–86°F — frost-sensitive; damaged below 50°F. Trellis vertically to promote airflow and easier harvest. Water consistently. As a monoecious variety, insect or hand pollination required. Harvest frequently — regular picking is the key to ever-bearing production. Use pruning shears; do not pull.

Watch for: Snails, aphids, cutworms, spider mites, squash vine borers, cucumber beetles. Practice crop rotation to reduce disease pressure.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.