Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash Seeds

How to Grow Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash Seeds from Seed

Summer squash thrives with frequent harvests, and if left unattended for even a day or two, can produce surprisingly large fruit. These seeds are a full-sun staple and can be sown directly after the last spring frost. For an earlier start, begin indoors 3-4 weeks prior. Plant 2-3 squash seeds 1″ deep per cell, spacing them 4-6″ apart in organic, moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 6.5-7.0.

When transplanting or sowing directly, plant the seeds on 6-8″ tall mounds of soil to accommodate the heavy vegetation. Seeds typically germinate within 4-14 days. Thin out the best seedlings and transplant them 24-36″ apart per mound. Summer squash benefits from a top layer of mulch to help cool the soil and roots. Fertilize after the first set of blooms appear and again during the fruiting stage. Zucchini becomes starchy and less flavorful when it reaches 18-24″ long.

Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash in the Vegetable Garden

Summer squash is one of the most productive, reliable, and fastest-growing crops available during the summer. Varieties such as zucchini, crookneck, cousa, or Mexican squash start fruiting and continue producing non-stop until frost. Frequent harvests keep the plants productive, and if left unattended, they can produce 18-24″ fruits.

Black Beauty squash grows quickly and is best harvested when the skin is tender and the fruit is about 5-8″ in length and 3″ in diameter. It can also be grown in containers about 16-18″ deep, with good drainage, plenty of light, adequate moisture, and recommended nutrients. Avoid watering the leaves to prevent plant diseases. Seeds are typically fertile for at least four years.

Harvesting Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash

Summer squash is one of the fastest and most productive crops in the garden. With frequent harvests, it will continue to produce until frost. Most varieties are ready to harvest 50-60 days from sowing or when they are ideally 6-8″ long. If not harvested promptly, summer squash can quickly grow to 18-24″ long and become starchy and less flavorful. Use shears or a knife to clip off the fruits at the stem. Do not twist or pull young and tender squash during harvest.

Black Beauty squash is a dark green that turns nearly black when fully mature. It is semi-spineless with an open growth habit and is best harvested at around 8″ in length.

About Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash Seeds

• Scientific Name: Cucurbita pepo
• Maturity: 62 days
• Also Known As: Dark Green Zucchini Squash or Courgette

Introduced in 1957, Black Beauty squash is great for freezing but is best enjoyed fresh from the garden. The white flesh is perfect for making delicious dishes your family will love.

Black Beauty squash also makes excellent beer-battered blossoms and is packed with nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, K, B6, beta carotene, potassium, manganese, folate, and more, while being super low in calories. They can be roasted, marinated in olive oil, fried, sautéed, or steamed, and used in soups, casseroles, and other dishes. Blanch before freezing and enjoy for up to three months.