Zucchini

Cucurbita pepo · Vegetable

Famously productive: one or two plants are usually enough for a household. It grows fast in warm soil, and the trick is to pick often while the fruit is still small and tender.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun, 6–8 hours a day

Water

1–2 in per week, deep, at the base

Soil

Rich, well-drained, pH 6.0–7.5

Temperature

Best 65–85 °F; frost kills it

Spacing

24–36 in apart, 36–48 in between rows

Container

At least 5 gallons, 12 in deep, per plant

Harvest

45–60 days from sowing (estimated)

Lifespan

Annual

When?

Sow directly outdoors 1–2 weeks after your last frost, when soil is above 65 °F. A second sowing in early summer extends the harvest (estimated).

Step by step

1. Work compost into a sunny bed before sowing.
2. Sow 2–3 seeds 1 in deep per spot; they sprout in 5–10 days in warm soil.
3. Thin to the strongest seedling once true leaves appear.
4. Water deeply at the base; avoid wetting the leaves.
5. Mulch to keep moisture steady and fruit off the soil.
6. Hand-pollinate with a small brush if fruit shrivels early.
7. Pick at 6–8 in long, every day or two at peak season.

Common problems

Pets

Not listed as toxic by ASPCA; plain cooked zucchini is generally not a concern, but don't let pets eat lots of leaves. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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