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Black beauty

Cucurbita pepo

$3.99

6 g Approximately

Black Beauty Zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) is a classic heirloom variety known for its productivity, easy growth, and excellent flavor. Originally introduced in the U.S. in the 1950s, it remains popular for backyard gardens, producing smooth, dark green, tender-skinned zucchinis that are best harvested young. This variety is ideal for urban and small-space gardens due to its semi-upright growth habit.

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75 in stock

  • Botanical Name: Cucurbita pepo
  • Days to Germination: 3-7 days
  • Days to Maturity: 55-60 days
  • Fruit Size: 8 inches long, 2 inches in diameter
  • Plant Height: Semi-upright, bush-like growth
  • Spacing:
    • Between Plants: 2-3 feet
    • Between Rows: 4-6 feet
  • Seeding Depth: 3/4-1 inch
  • Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
  • Soil pH: 6.0-7.5
  • Hardiness Zones: 3-12
  • Temperature: 75-80°F for optimal germination

Sowing Instructions
Timing:

  • Direct Sowing: Plant seeds outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures reach at least 65°F.
  • Indoor Sowing (Cooler Climates): Start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost in peat pots to minimize transplant shock.

Soil Preparation:

  • Choose rich, well-draining soil. Amending with compost improves growth.
  • Mound soil in 12-inch diameter hills and space hills 3-4 feet apart.

Planting:

  • For hills, plant 4-6 seeds per mound, thinning to 3 seedlings after germination.
  • Space seeds 2-3 feet apart in rows, with rows spaced 4-6 feet apart.

Watering:

  • Water deeply and consistently, avoiding leaves to reduce mildew risk.

Mulching:

  • Apply mulch to help retain soil moisture, control weeds, and keep fruits clean.

Fertilization:

  • Fertilize plants with a balanced fertilizer before planting and once fruiting begins for improved yield.

Support:

  • Although it has a bush-like habit, zucchini may benefit from light support to prevent sprawling.

Pests and Diseases:

  • Monitor for common pests like squash bugs and cucumber beetles.
  • Powdery mildew can be minimized with good air circulation and by avoiding wetting the leaves.

Harvesting and Storage
Harvest Timing:

  • Harvest fruits at about 6-8 inches for the best flavor and texture, typically 55-60 days after sowing.

Regular Harvesting:

  • Harvesting regularly encourages continued production. In peak season, harvesting every 2-3 days is recommended.

Storage:

  • Store fresh zucchinis in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Culinary Uses
Serving Ideas:

  • Enjoy Black Beauty Zucchini grilled, steamed, sautÂŽed, or used in stir-fries and salads. Young fruits with the flower attached are delicious steamed or lightly roasted for an elegant presentation.
  • Black Beauty Zucchini is a versatile, high-yielding option for home gardeners, producing delicious, tender fruits throughout the growing season with minimal maintenance. This heirloom variety is perfect for gardeners looking for an easy-to-grow and highly productive summer vegetable.