1# BLACK BEAUTY ZUCCHINI SEED

Black Beauty Zucchini Seed (Cucurbita pepo ‘Black Beauty’) is a classic heirloom bush zucchini known for its early harvests, glossy dark‑green fruit, and excellent flavor. It’s one of the most reliable and popular zucchini varieties for home gardeners.

🌱 Variety Overview

• Type: Summer squash (zucchini), bush habit

• Fruit Color: Very dark green, almost black

• Fruit Shape: Straight, cylindrical

• Fruit Size: 6–8 inches (best eating size)

• Days to Maturity: 45–55 days

• Plant Spread: 2–3 feet

• Use: Sautéing, grilling, baking, freezing, fresh eating

✅ Why Grow Black Beauty

• Early and very productive

• Compact bush plant—no vines

• Classic zucchini flavor and texture

• Performs well in a wide range of climates

• Heirloom variety—seed can be saved

A dependable choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

🌤️ Growing Conditions

• Season: Warm‑season crop

• Sun: Full sun (8+ hours)

• Soil: Fertile, well‑drained soil with organic matter

• Soil pH: 6.0–6.8

• Temperature: Plant after all frost danger has passed

⚠️ Zucchini is sensitive to frost and cold soil.

🌱 Planting Instructions

• When to Plant:

  • After last frost, when soil is ≥60–65°F

• How to Plant:

  • Depth: 1 inch

  • Spacing: 24–36 inches apart

  • Rows: 3–4 feet apart

🌱 Tip: Plant in slightly raised hills amended with compost to improve drainage.

💧 Care & Feeding

• Water deeply and regularly at the base of plants

• Avoid overhead watering to reduce disease

• Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds

• Feed with balanced fertilizer once flowering begins

🥒 Harvesting

• Harvest at 6–8 inches long for best flavor and tenderness

• Pick every 1–2 days—plants produce quickly

• Frequent harvesting encourages higher yields

👉 Oversized fruits slow production.

🌿 Common Issues (and Tips)

• Powdery mildew: Ensure good air circulation

• Squash vine borer: Use row covers early, remove after flowering

• Blossom drop: Often caused by heat stress or lack of pollinators

🌿 Companion Plants

• Beans

• Corn

• Radishes

• Nasturtiums

(Avoid planting near potatoes.)