Growing Zucchini, also Courgette/Marrow, Summer squash

Cucurbita pepo : Cucurbitaceae / the gourd family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
                  S S S
T                     T

(Best months for growing Zucchini in New Zealand - cool/mountain regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 70°F and 95°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 20 - 35 inches apart
  • Harvest in 6-9 weeks. Cut the fruit often to keep producing.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Corn, beans, nasturtiums, parsley, Silverbeet, Tomatoes
  • Avoid growing close to: Potatoes

Your comments and tips

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18 Sep 08, Liz (New Zealand - temperate climate)
Lisa, zucchini/courgettes behave like that when they are not fertilised. You could try using a soft paintbrush to do it by hand.
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Mel, they are probably male flowers. (Female flowers have small zucchini below them). You can help along with the pollination by transferring the pollen from the male flower to the female flower with a small brush if the female flowers drop off and no zucchini growing. The recent heatwaves may also contribute to your problem.

- Lee

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