How to Grow Zucchini

A warm-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Zucchini is a rewarding warm-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Plant Zucchini in spring once the soil has warmed and all frost has passed. In the warmest regions a second crop is possible in late summer. See your region on the zucchini page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Black Beauty, Classic dark green zucchini (Burpee)
• Cocozelle, Striped Italian heirloom (Baker Creek)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 80 cm (31 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 2 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 10 L per plant every 2 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for 28-spotted ladybird, Pickleworm, Squash bug and Aphids. In humid regions, Powdery mildew, Downy mildew and Blossom end rot can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Zucchini is usually ready to harvest in about 2 months. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant zucchini where you garden.

See also: Zucchini in the plant library →

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