Courgettes in Beattock
Cucurbita pepo
A tender summer crop for the UK. Sow indoors in warmth, plant out after the last frost into rich, moisture-retentive soil, and keep picking young fruits to keep plants productive.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Courgette
Planting Calendar
Sow Seeds Indoors
28 Apr – 5 MaySow one seed on its edge in a small pot of warm compost around 28th April - 5th May. Keep the compost just moist and do not sow earlier, because seedlings grow fast and can become root-bound if left too long.
Pot On Seedlings
15 May – 29 MayWhen the first true leaves are formed, move each seedling into a larger pot so roots have room to develop. Handle them gently and keep them in good light from 15th May to 29th May.
Harden Off Plants
19 May – 2 JunAcclimatise plants outdoors over about 10 days from 19th May to 2nd June. Start in a sheltered spot by day and bring them in at night, then leave them out longer each day until they cope with full outdoor conditions.
Transplant Outdoors
2 Jun – 16 JunPlant into rich soil or a prepared mound around 2nd June - 16th June once frost risk has passed. Water in thoroughly straight after planting, keep the stem base slightly raised above the surrounding soil, and space plants apart.
Water and Feed
24 Jul – 8 Septevery weekFrom 24th July to 8th September, water deeply at the soil rather than over the leaves, and avoid soaking the main stem. Begin feeding with a high-potash liquid feed once the first fruits set, then repeat every 7 days while plants are cropping.
Harvest Courgettes
14 Jul – 8 Septevery 3 daysPick fruits from 14th July to 8th September while they are small and tender, ideally when they are long. Harvest often, because regular picking keeps the plant producing for longer.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Courgette.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Courgette to consider
Black Beauty
A reliable green courgette with good cropping and a classic straight fruit shape.
Defender
A popular early, productive hybrid that crops well in UK summers.
Tondo di Piacenza
A round-fruited type that’s handy for stuffing or small harvests.
Astra Polka
A pale-skinned variety with attractive mottling and steady yields.
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Brussels Sprouts
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Calabrese
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