ABSTRACT
This chapter provides selected information regarding the improvement of yield and quality and to review certain aspects of technology as they relate to the processed product. Molecular marker technology is discussed with reference to its potential for improving fruit yield and quality, and technologies relating to the culture, harvesting, and processing of cucumber are described as they relate to yield and product quality. Standard cucumber varieties possess an indeterminate plant habit and one to two primary lateral branches originating from the main stem. Ethylene is considered the primary hormone affecting femaleness, while gibberellins regulate male sex expression. However, characterization of the ethylene biosynthetic pathway and the effects of different substances on ethylene biosynthesis and/or action has improved our understanding of the role of ethylene in sex expression. Manipulation of plant architecture with concomitant adjustments in plant population density can be utilized to increase yield.
