Evaluation of Ten Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) Hybrids Under Greenhouse Conditions in the Aral Sea Region of Kazakhstan

Abstract

Greenhouse cucumber production in the Aral Sea region of Kazakhstan faces unique challenges due to harsh climatic conditions and limited agricultural resources, making cultivar selection a critical determinant of productivity and economic viability. This study evaluated ten parthenocarpic smooth-fruited cucumber hybrids, Multistar F1, Melen F1, Hoyrat F1, Minmax F1, Lami F1, Infinity F1, Magnum F1, Sprint F1, Joki F1, and Kirton F1, under greenhouse conditions in 2024. Plants were grown in a small-volume hydroponic system using a substrate of 75% wood shavings and 25% rice husks, arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Key performance indicators included fruiting onset, total yield (kg/m²), fruit count, average fruit weight, dry matter content, nitrate accumulation, and profitability index. Only Sprint F1 and Multistar F1 achieved the target fruiting onset of 45-46 days after germination. The highest yields were recorded for Melen F1, Hoyrat F1, Joki F1, and Kirton F1 (37.1-38.6 kg/m²), driven primarily by increased fruit weight, while Sprint F1 achieved 38.0 kg/m² through a combination of high fruit count and favorable average fruit weight. Melen F1, Hoyrat F1, Sprint F1, Joki F1, and Kirton F1 demonstrated high dry matter content and low nitrate accumulation, indicating strong market quality. Sprint F1, Melen F1, Joki F1, and Hoyrat F1 recorded the highest profitability indices (78.1-78.5%). Based on combined agronomic and economic performance, Sprint F1 and Melen F1 are recommended as the most suitable hybrids for commercial greenhouse cucumber production in the Aral Sea region of Kazakhstan.