How to Grow Zucchini - Kings Seeds

Zucchini, a versatile and delicious vegetable, is a great addition to any home garden. Not only is growing zucchini easy, but it also produces a bountiful harvest that can be used in a variety of recipes. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps on how to grow zucchini successfully, from preparing your garden to harvesting your crops.

 

Preparing Your Garden for Growing Zucchini

Before you begin your zucchini journey, preparation is key. Zucchini plants thrive in a sunny location, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. Soil quality is equally important; zucchini prefers well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter such as compost.

To ensure optimal growth, you can improve your garden soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Testing your soil's pH level is also beneficial; zucchinis thrive in soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.

 

Sowing Zucchini Seeds

When it comes to 'when to plant zucchini,' some gardeners sow their seeds outdoors after the last frost date in late spring. This is usually between late Oct and early Nov, depending on your location. If you want to get a head start, you can start seeds indoors on heat pads in wool pots about 3 to 4 weeks before the last frost for transplanting out; the wool pots help minimise transplant shock. 

For direct sowing, plant seeds about 20mm deep, spaced 60cm to 100cm apart to allow for ample growth.

 

Planting Zucchinis

It's great to think 'how do zucchini grow' when planting your zucchini seeds or seedlings; ensure you've chosen a sunny spot with plenty of room for the plants to spread. You can plant zucchini in rows or hills, which can help improve drainage and soil warmth. Hilling helps with airflow, and it makes harvesting easier if you choose to do so. 

Watering is crucial during this stage. Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not soggy. Mulching around your plants helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds, creating an ideal environment for your zucchini to thrive. Wool mulch also serves as great pest control.

 

Care & Maintenance for Zucchini Plants 

Once your zucchinis are growing, regular maintenance is essential for a successful harvest. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy:

- Watering: Zucchini plants need consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Early morning is the best time to water.

- Fertilising: After a few weeks of growth, apply a balanced fertiliser such as our seaweed and herb fertiliser to encourage lush foliage and fruit production. Follow label instructions for proper application to save the plant from leaf burn due to over-fertilising.

- Pest Control: Watch for common pests like aphids and whitefly. Squish any visible pests and consider using row covers as protection, or check out our short video on Aphids and Whitefly here.

- Pruning: As the plants grow larger, it's advisable to prune any yellow or dead leaves to promote air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

 

When Do You Harvest Zucchini

When do you harvest zucchini? Generally, zucchinis are ready to harvest within 45-65 days from transplant, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Look for zucchinis that are between 15 and 20 cms long; they are tender and flavourful at this size. Regular harvesting encourages the plants to produce more fruit. If left too long, zucchinis can grow large and become tough marrows, so pick frequently!

Zucchini Growing Tips

1. Choose the Right Varieties: Popular zucchini varieties include Black Beauty, Costata Romanesco, and Summer Gold Zucchini. Each has unique characteristics, so choose according to your tastes and garden conditions.

2. Space Wisely: Adequate spacing allows air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases like powdery mildew.

3. Hand Pollination: If your garden has few bees, you can help with pollination by transferring pollen using a small brush between male and female flowers.

4. Rotate Crops: Practice crop rotation each year to help prevent soil-borne diseases and nutrient depletion. Plant legumes or cover crops after zucchini have depleted a garden bed.

5. Use Companion Planting: Consider planting zucchini alongside corn and beans to maximise your harvest and deter pests.

 

How to Grow Zucchini Step-By-Step

1. Prepare the soil with compost and ensure good drainage.

2. Sow seeds 20mm deep, spaced 60cm-100cm apart after the last frost.

3. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the soil consistently moist.

4. Fertilise as needed with seaweed and herb fertiliser to encourage healthy growth.

5. Monitor for pests and address any issues promptly. You can mulch with wool mulch mats to help.

6. Harvest zucchinis when they are between 15 and 20 centimetres, picking regularly.

 

FAQs on Growing Zucchini

1. How long does zucchini take to grow?

Zucchini typically takes about 45 to 55 days from transplant to harvest. Favourable conditions, like warm soil and consistent watering, can help it grow more quickly.

2. How does zucchini grow?

Zucchini plants grow from seeds and develop a large, leafy bush. The flowers are either male or female, and only the females produce the zucchini fruit after pollination. 

3. Do zucchini plants need to climb?

Zucchini plants are generally bushy and don't require climbing supports. However, using trellises & stakes can save space and improve air circulation around the plants.

4. What not to plant near zucchini?

Avoid planting zucchini near plants in the same family, like cucumbers and melons, as they can compete for nutrients. Also, keep them away from fennel, kumara and potatoes. They love to grow next to marigolds, borage, oregano and bush beans.

  

Growing zucchini can be a rewarding experience for gardeners of any level, especially when the zucchini glut hits. Watch our short top tips video on Zucchini here and for a variety of zucchini seeds and more gardening tips, visit the Kings Seeds website to explore our range.