Cover cucumbers with cold water. Wash thoroughly, using a vegetable brush, handling gently to avoid bruising. Take care to remove any blossoms. Drain on rack or wipe dry.
Place half the pickle spices and a layer of dill in a 5-gallon crock or stone jar. Fill with cucumbers to 3 to 4" from top of crock. Mix vinegar, salt and water and pour over the cucumbers. Plac