Should I prune zucchini plant leaves?

Trimming leaves on zucchini plants requires prudence and the ability to make informed judgments about how best to maintain the health and productivity of the plants. Age-yellowing leaves near the base should be removed only using sterilized shears. There must be healthy green leaves because they are necessary for generating photosynthesis, which is essential for fruit development. I cut or prune after the morning dew has dried up to minimize the chance of spreading disease.

Always sterilize pruning shears between plants. I use rubbing alcohol on the shears to avoid spreading diseases such as powdery mildew. On the apple tree, for example: make clean cuts near the main stem - without breaking it. Sharp or jagged tears on the branches will allow infections to take over, completely destroying your plant in a humid situation.

Proper pruning dramatically improves air circulation. Cutting back congested lower leaves reduces humidity around the plant base, thereby inhibiting fungal diseases that thrive in stagnant air. I maintain a 6-inch clearance between the soil's surface and where the lowest leaves terminate, thereby enabling a healthy microclimate.

Over-pruning will damage plants far more than under-pruning will. If you remove more than 30% of the leaves, you are effectively starving the plant, significantly reducing fruit production. Sunscald could also harm the exposed developing zucchini. Removal should be limited to 2-3 leaves per week. Keep a close watch on the plant's response.

Time pruning according to plant development stages. Prune the flowers while they are trying to establish fruit sets. Again, this will occur after your first harvest of the season, when your plants have gained significant strength. Do not prune late in the season, so your plants can focus their energy on the remaining fruits.

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