Growing courgettes from seed is the most cost-effective way to achieve a tasty harvest and, given good conditions for germination, we are confident that you will be delighted with the results. To help you achieve success we have put together some hints and tips for growing!
Step 1
Sow Seeds
Sow the courgette seeds singly, on their sides, in individual pots filled with good quality compost. Sowing courgette seeds on their sides stops them rotting. Water them gently and label your pots. Keep them on a sunny windowsill or in a propagator.
Step 2
Germinate
As soon as your courgette seeds sprout, remove them from the propagator (if using) as they will grow very quickly! Keep them on a sunny windowsill or in a heated greenhouse. Pot them on (into larger pots) when you see their roots start to stick out of the holes in the bottom of the pots.
Step 3
Prepare The Plot
Mix some compost or manure into the area where you are going to plant your courgettes. They are hungry plants and feeding will ensure a larger crop.
Step 4
Plant Out
After all chance of frost has passed, plant out your courgettes with 60cm between plants. Make a little moat in the soil around each plant (to help retain water) and water them well. They are thirsty plants!
Step 5
Harvest
Always cut the fruit from the plant – never pull, as this can damage the plant or snap your courgette. Keep picking a couple of times each week to encourage more fruit.
Top Tip
If you find the first flowers fall off without producing fruit, this is due to a lack of pollinating insects. Consider adding a self-pollinating variety, like courgette ‘Sure Thing’, which will always crop.
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