Zucchini

Planting zucchini

Sow directly after the last frost in warm soil, or start indoors 2 to 3 weeks early and transplant carefully. Most households need only one or two plants.

Planting details

• Sow 2 to 3 seeds per spot and thin to the strongest
• Seed depth: about 1 inch
• Spacing: 24 to 36 inches; vines spread wide

Growing requirements

Zucchini needs full sun, rich soil, and regular water at the roots. Mulch holds moisture through hot spells and keeps developing fruit off the ground.

Harvesting and care

Harvest fruit at 6 to 8 inches for the best texture, and check plants every day during peak season. Removing oversized fruit quickly keeps new flowers setting.

Common mistakes

• Planting too many hills, which buries the kitchen in squash by July
• Watering leaves instead of roots, which encourages powdery mildew
• Leaving giant fruit on the vine, which pauses new production

Companion plants

Beans, corn, and nasturtiums grow well near squash. Give vines room so they do not smother smaller neighbors by midsummer.