When Is Zucchini Ready to Pick?

Zucchini should be picked before the fruit gets too big

Zucchini, also known as courgette, is a member of the summer squash family. Usually deep green in color, there are some varieties that are yellowish gold and some that are a pale, ghostly green.

Size

Zucchini can grow up to about a yard in length; however, as the fruit grows the seeds harden and become tough. Ideally zucchini should be picked when the fruits are 6 to 8 inches long.

How to Pick Zucchini

Cut the fruit off the stem with a sharp knife or shears to prevent damaging the plant. Leave a bit of the stem on the fruit to avoid having an open wound, and wear cotton gloves to keep your nails from digging through the tender skin.

Growth Habits

Harvest zucchini every other day during the season, or every day if the plant is producing well. Once zucchini starts to flower, the fruit can mature and grow rapidly and can become extremely large very quickly.

Using Oversized Fruit

If one of your zucchini gets away from you and grows too big, there is no need to throw it away. Simply halve it, scrape out the seeds, and then either stuff and bake it for dinner or shred it for zucchini bread or muffins.

Use

Use zucchini within a few days for maximum freshness and taste. Never refrigerate zucchini as this will hasten its deterioration. If you will not be using it quickly, grate or shred it and freeze for later use in breads, soups or casseroles.

References

• University of Illinois Extension Service: "Summer Squash"
• North Caroline State University Extension Service: "Summer Squash Production"