Table of Contents
Plant Care Guide: Zucchini – Black Beauty
Zucchini ‘Black Beauty’ is a prolific and easy-to-grow variety known for its dark green, glossy fruits. It thrives in warm conditions and is perfect for grilling, roasting, or baking.
Planting
- Best Time to Plant: Sow seeds in late spring to early summer when temperatures are consistently above 15°C.
- Soil Preparation: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5, enriched with compost.
- Spacing: Sow seeds 2-3 cm deep and 60-90 cm apart to allow for spreading growth.
- Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently, avoiding overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Care & Maintenance
- Support: Not required, but plants benefit from staking if space is limited.
- Fertilising: Apply a balanced fertiliser at planting and side-dress with compost or liquid fertiliser every few weeks.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Mulching: Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests & Diseases
- Common Pests: Aphids, squash bugs, and powdery mildew can be issues. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for pests and ensure good airflow to prevent mildew.
- Common Diseases: Blossom end rot and bacterial wilt can occur in stressed plants. Maintain even moisture and remove affected plants if needed.
Companion Planting
- Good Companions: Beans, corn, and nasturtiums help deter pests and improve growth.
- Avoid Planting Near: Potatoes and pumpkins, as they may compete for space and nutrients.
Harvesting
- When to Harvest: Ready in 45-60 days when fruits are 15-20 cm long and firm.
- How to Harvest: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut zucchinis from the vine.
- Storage: Store fresh zucchinis in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or slice and freeze for longer storage.
Bonus Tip
Harvest zucchinis regularly to encourage continuous production and prevent oversized, seedy fruits.
Happy gardening! 🌱
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