Zucchini growing tips

Zucchini belongs to the high-yield category of plants. Wouldn’t you say so? They are easy to grow and each plant produces several fruits per week! Just make sure to harvest them often because too large zucchinis contain large seeds and are not as tasty as smaller ones. If you harvest early and small ones you can eat them with the skin – you do not need to peel them. Everyone knows this crop because we have usually so much of zucchinis during the season that we don’t know what to do with it. Unfortunately, zucchini also has a relatively short shelf life, so you need to use them soon…

When should you start growing zucchinis?

The second half of May is usually the time when you should plant zucchini. Sowing is usually done outside, providing that the temperature is above 16 °C. If you decide to pre-grow zucchinis, plant them in pots two to four weeks before the last spring frost. Peat is great for pre-growing. When transplanting outside, you need to be very careful and watch for the roots. They are very delicate.

Photo: Pixabay

Choose a suitable place

Zucchini needs plenty of sun and the soil should be moist, light but permeable so water does not stay in puddles – wet soil is the cause of many diseases and fungi. Before planting, work in some compost into the soil – you will get better yield. When sowing outside, plant the seeds 2.5 centimetres deep and about 60 to 90 centimetres apart.

Growing zucchini

To protect shallow roots apply a layer of mulch – this will keep weeds at bay and retain moisture in the soil. When the first flowers appear, you can apply a small amount of fertilizer. Frequent and consistent watering is very important for proper fruit development. Moisture must reach 10 centimetres deep. When the harvest starts, you can add fertilizer again to support further development and fruit growth. If you see misshapen fruits the reason may be insufficient water or fertilization.

Zucchini harvest

Small zucchini taste the best. Most varieties are fully ripe after about 60 days after planting. Check your plants daily for new fruit. Once the plant starts producing, try collecting fruit every dayHarvest by cutting the fruit but leave about 2.5 centimetres of stem on the fruit. If you find an overripe zucchini, cut it off, but don’t eat it. If it is not completely overripe you can peel it and remove all seeds and then you can consume it. Fresh zucchini will last in the fridge for up to ten days.

Preview photo: Pixabay