No gin and tonic is complete without a slice of cucumber - and Hendrick's Gin agree.
That's why the gin producer is giving away free cucumber seeds so everyone can grow their own this summer.
The popular drinks brand has partnered with the Cucumber Growers Association to provide the seeds, all you have to do to claim is email GrowYourOwnCuke@promoentries.com stating “free cucumber seeds”.
There are 246 freebies available to claim a pack of the Hendrick’s cucumber seeds in total.
Hendrick’s Gin Master Distiller, Lesley Gracie notes, “Hendrick’s Gin has always held the cucumber in the highest regard. Made with a number of unusual twists, Hendrick’s Gin is oddly infused with rose and cucumber essences – inspired by a quintessential British scene of rose gardens and cucumber sandwiches. We wish to spread understanding and devotion for cucumbers across the lands and invite all those with a curious mind to cultivate and embrace their very own unusual side!”
So now the cucumbers sorted, why not pick some gin to go along with it? You can currently pick up a bottle of the classic Hendrick's Gin (70 cl) for £25 from Amazon.
The online retailer also stocks the Hendrick's Midsummer Solstice Gin, £35, the limited edition floral, zesty version which is perfect for a twist on the classic. And it equally tastes great paired with cucumber ribbons and some decent tonic.
How to grow your own cucumbers
Fill a small pot (or jam jar) with fresh potting mix and make a dip in the soil about 2cms deep. Place 1-2 seeds in per pot and water well.
Your cucumbers will thank you for being in a warm sunny spot in these early days – we suggest using a clear plastic lid (or cling film) over the pot, as cucumber seedlings love humidity and this will help no end.
Once the seedlings appear and the first leaves are showing, remove the smallest shoot to leave one seedling per pot.
As the leaves start to grow, consider re-potting into a larger space such as a window box, bigger/ deeper pot or flower bed if available.
Once your cuke plant is established it requires little fuss – but don’t forget these thirsty plants require regular watering to ensure the soil is never dry.
As your cucumber vines start to grow, they can be trained up a trellis, bamboo or along a piece of string.
Feed plants every few weeks (not with Hendrick’s but with some plant feed, of course) to ensure best results.
Harvest cucumbers whilst they are still small and tender for best taste.