Can I plant zucchini in late summer?

Planting zucchini in late summer extends your harvest into fall, if you plan correctly. Start seeding 10-12 weeks before the expected first frost date in your area. Use varieties that mature quickly, such as Eight Ball or Gold Rush, which will produce in 45-50 days. I always review historical frost dates for exact timing.

For late plantings, I always prepare the soil with extra compost to ensure optimal growth. Summer soils tend to dry out more quickly and require improved moisture retention. I typically mix 3 inches of compost into my beds before planting. Use black plastic mulch if you have to maintain soil temperatures at 60°F or higher. Check the soil temperature of your beds/usual planting area before you sow seeds.

In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Use 30% shade cloth during the hottest part of the day to avoid stress. Water thoroughly every morning while evaporation is high. I use drip irrigation with timers to provide consistent moisture without wetting the foliage.

Protect your young plants from cool spring nights. Cloches (also known as frost blankets) will protect seedlings when the temperature drops below 60 degrees F. You should remove the cover each morning to help them prevent getting too hot. In zone 5-6, I use mini hoop houses for continued protection as fall inches closer.

Watch those growth rates! Zucchini planted late in the season will grow more slowly than spring-planted zucchini, and the harvest will occur about a week or ten days later than the package instructions indicate. I keep the plants healthy by applying a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks, starting from the time they begin to flower.

Harvest quickly when ready because cold will cease growth. Zucchinis should be harvested at 6-8 inches before frost appears. Cover plants if a frost warning is issued. I get 4-6 fruits from each plant from my late summer plant before the end of the season.

Read the full article: When to Harvest Zucchini: Ultimate Guide