How To Grow Zucchini

How To Grow Menu | Zucchini Varieties

When to Plant

Sow directly into the garden once the danger of frost has passed or for an earlier crop, start indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost using 3-4” Jiffy peat pots and make sure to weather/harden off the plants before setting them in the ground.

Location/Soil

Best when planted in a rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun. Transplants should only go into the garden once soil is completely warmed.

Planting & Growing Information

Sow seeds 2.5 cm (1″) deep and sow 5-6 seeds per hill or 5 cm (2″) apart. Plants should be spaced/thinned to 2 or 3 of the strongest plants per hill or 15 cm (6″) apart. Rows should be spaced 1.5-1.8 m (5-6′) apart. Seeds germinate in approximately 5-12 days.

Days to Maturity

From date directly sown in garden.

Other Information

Keep soil adequately moist throughout the season and give plants a nice deep watering once a week.

Water around the base of the plant and be careful to avoid splashing dirt onto the leaves which can transfer diseases from the soil to the plants.

Harvesting & Storage

For best quality and flavor, zucchinis should be harvested when young. Most varieties are best picked when fruits are approximately 10-20 cm (4-8”) long.

Regular harvesting will increase the yield.

Zucchinis that get overly large are perfectly suited for muffins and breads.

Like other summer squashes, zucchinis do not keep for a long time. Refrigerate and use within a week.

Companion Planting

Likes: beans, corn, peas, marigolds, nasturtiums, radish