How to Grow Zucchini in New Zealand

Sow direct from October once frost has passed in Auckland. One or two plants is usually enough. Pick young and often to keep them producing, and water at the base to reduce powdery mildew.

When to plant zucchini in New Zealand

Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:

Best zucchini varieties for NZ

• Black Beauty — Classic dark green bush courgette, heavy and early cropper. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds, Mitre 10)
• Golden — Bright yellow fruit on a compact bush, mild and tender. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
• Costata Romanesco — Ribbed Italian heirloom with excellent nutty flavour, good for flowers too. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
• Tromboncino — Climbing trombone courgette, firm flesh and few seeds, vigorous vine. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)

How to grow zucchini

• Space plants about 80cm apart.
• Sow seed around 2cm deep.
• Position: full sun.
• Ready to harvest in roughly 60 days.
• Seeds germinate in about 7 days.

Companion planting

Grow zucchini near: Nasturtium, Corn, Beans, Marigold.

Pests and problems

Watch for: Powdery mildew, Aphids, Whitefly. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.