When And How To Harvest Zucchini And Summer Squash

Summer squash are prolific producers. But do you know how and when to harvest zucchini for peak flavor? Learn how right here.

Transcript

00:00Whether you are new to vegetable gardening or an experienced pro, sometimes

00:04it's difficult to know how and when to harvest vegetables. Hi, this is Amy from

00:09Gardening Know How and I'm going to share a few handy garden harvest tips

00:12that will have you picking those vegetables at their peak. Veggies continue

00:18to improve or degrade after they are picked so timing is crucial. Some plants

00:24like tomatoes, zucchini, peppers and various root vegetables like carrots can

00:28be picked at any time of the day but should then go right into proper storage.

00:33Even though zucchinis can grow rather large rather quickly, it is best to harvest

00:37smaller fruits as they are more tender with a better taste. Ideally, zucchini and

00:42summer squash should be harvested when they are about 6 to 8 inches long. If you

00:47leave them on the vine too long, the seeds and rind will harden and if the fruit

00:52feels mushy, it is past its prime and probably rotten. If squash is properly

00:57stored in a crisper, it should remain fresh for a week or more. Avoid storing the

01:01squash in sealed bags or airtight containers as the lack of airflow will

01:06impact their flavor. Well, now you have the know-how to properly harvest some of

01:11the most common vegetables. Until next time, happy gardening!