Zucchini

Zucchini grows vigorously in fertile, well-drained soil around pH 6.0-7.0 with plenty of finished compost. Side-dress lightly as fruiting begins, maintain even moisture, and give the broad leaves room for air circulation.

Sun

Full sun

Water

1–2 in/week

Spacing

36 in

First harvest

45–60 days

Tips

• Sow 1 inch deep once soil is at least 65°F, thinning to one plant every 2-3 feet.
• Water at the base to supply 1-2 inches weekly without repeatedly wetting leaves.
• Check stems for squash vine borer frass and leaf undersides for squash bug egg clusters.
• If small fruit shrivels without enlarging, hand-pollinate newly opened female flowers with pollen from a male flower in the morning.
• Cut fruit at 6-8 inches long and check plants daily during peak production.

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