Growing guide

How to Grow Zucchini & Summer Squash

Famously productive — one or two plants can feed a whole household.

The basics

What zucchini & summer squash need

• Sun — Full sun (6+ hours)
• Water — 1–2 inches per week, deep
• Harvest in 45–60 days
• Difficulty — Very easy

When to plant

Time it from your frost date

• Start indoors: 2–3 weeks before last frost (optional)
• Transplant: After last frost; roots dislike disturbance
• Direct sow: 1 week after last frost, soil 65°F+
• Best in Zones 3–11

How to plant

Three steps to a strong start

• 1. Direct-sow 1 in deep in warm soil, or start in pots and transplant gently.
• 2. Give each plant 2–3 ft of space — they get big.
• 3. Water at the base and mulch; avoid wetting leaves to limit mildew.

Common problem

Powdery mildew

Common late-season; improve airflow and water at the base.

Common problem

Squash vine borer

Watch for wilting; the larva tunnels the stem. Use row cover early and bury stem nodes.

Harvest

Picking zucchini & summer squash right

Pick zucchini at 6–8 in for the best texture; check daily, as they grow fast. Frequent harvesting keeps the plant producing for weeks.

Gardeners ask

Why does my zucchini have flowers but no fruit?

Plants produce male flowers first, then female ones. Fruit follows once both appear and bees pollinate — or hand-pollinate yourself.

Keep growing

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