I've decided to try a new-to-me way of growing cucumbers. built the tripod out of scrap wood, draped and secured some anti-deer netting across it, and hung my basket of baby cuke plants at one end. the goal is to train them up through the netting and then guide them around on top. in theory the cucumbers will grow down through the netting and hang there for easy picking. no idea if the birds in this area are interested in cukes, but I feel its high enough to ward off the local ground-based wildlife. I've got lots more netting if needed.
cost me nothing. if it works, I'll step it up a notch next spring.
Inspired by the gardens in The Land pavilion at Disney World