How to grow zucchini – step-by-step guide

Zucchini is one of the most popular vegetables that people grow. Proper cultivation includes certain basic rules, but in general, growing is not difficult. Even beginners can grow zucchini successfully. There are several types of zucchini and if you are tired of the regular oblong zucchini, you can choose from other types. There are round and differently coloured zucchinis.

Sowing seeds

Zucchini are usually grown from seeds – by direct sowing. Do not forget that zucchini is a heat-loving plant, so you should sow about two weeks after the last frost. Zucchini also needs plenty of sun to grow. Sow seeds about 1 cm deep and leave about 60 cm between them. Seedlings need a lot of space to grow. Dense sowing could promote various fungal diseases plus zucchini are also susceptible to moulds. Some people pre-grow zucchini at home to speed up the process and to enjoy early harvest.

Photo: Pixabay

Germination

After about seven to ten days, seeds start to germinate. However, if the soil was still rather cold when you sowed, it may take longer. True leaves should appear about one week after you notice first tiny leaves. Zucchinis grows quite quickly and need plenty of space. Keep the soil moist during the growing season – water roots, not the leaves! As mentioned earlier zucchinis are susceptible to mould and fungal diseases and water on leaves will do no good. If you expect a very dry weather, you need to water daily.

Flowering

About six weeks after planting, you should see first yellow flowers. Male flowers bloom first and then the female flowers – a few days later. Male flowers are used to prepare certain dishes, so you may harvest them if you want. Do not forget to leave few flowers on the plant to make sure that the plant is pollinated properly. You may start fertilizing as soon as you notice that the plant is developing fruit. This will help you to maximize your harvest.

Harvest

As soon as the growing season is over you need to harvest. Once you notice that the female flowers are closing and that small green fruits are developing you need to harvest. Little fruit also grow very quickly. Harvesting usually takes place about 45 to 50 days after planting. Zucchinis can grow by more than 2 cm each day, so you need to keep an eye on them. Popular chefs tend to agree that zucchinis that are 15 to 20 cm in size taste best. Larger zucchinis usually contain large seeds and are harder. Use a sharp knife to cut zucchinis and leave about a centimetre long stem on each zucchini.

Source: https://www.urbangardengal.com/zucchini-plant-growth-stages/

Preview photo: Pixabay