Growing zucchini

Zucchini is another vegetable originally brought back from the Americas (along with chillies, tomatoes, potatoes and chocolate) by the Spanish Conquistadors. These are fast-growing, warmth-loving plants, and spring is the ideal time to plant seeds or seedlings. In subtropical zones, you can sow seed from July through to March. In temperate zones (eg, Sydney) sow from September to January. In cold climates (eg, Tassie and mountains) sow from October to December.

Plant zucchinis in a very sunny spot, in soil enriched with plenty of aged manure (eg, Dynamic Lifter) and compost. Mulch around plants to a depth of about 3-4cm, to preserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Zucchini need a steady water supply, so keep plants well-watered. To keep plants growing rapidly, give them monthly liquid feeds as well, or apply some more Dynamic Lifter around the base of plants each month.