Love Cucumbers? Show It and Grow It with Heart Shaped Molds

Cucumbers shaped to your heart's desire without resorting to a paring knife? That's the idea behind these clear plastic molds that allow your veggies to literally grow into a shape perfect for lovable slicing.

Although the instructions included in this set of clear plastic molds is in Japanese, the theory behind heart-shaped cucumbers is straightforward and takes minimal effort. Plus, the "training", as it were, it doesn't hurt the living cucumbers nor affect their nutritional content. The only thing you need at the get-go is a cucumber bush growing in your garden.




Simply slip one of the sleeves (3 are included) over a small, young cucumber and let Mother Nature do the rest. The veggies will expand to the imposed limit and fill out the rest of the available space. It's the same method used to grow square watermelons, which sell for a large premium in Japanese stores.

While I'm not sure cucumbers of any shape belong on a pizza as shown above, they're great in salads, as a garnish, and just might make kids eat their veggies when added to a school lunch. One might also try using the cute customized cukes to make pickles - ideal for those who "heart" their dills. (via Japan Trend Shop)