Zucchini is an inherently Jersey thing, even though it’s grown all around the country. There’s nothing like a Jersey summer without zucchini, eggplant, Jersey corn, and Jersey tomatoes.
If you grow zucchini in your backyard or know somebody who grows zucchini, you probably know you’re in for a lot of zucchini each summer. Sometimes, too much.
Zucchini are in full bloom and growth right now across the Garden State and soon, your neighbors will be leaving bags of them on your front porch, in your mailbox, and wherever else they can stick them.
If you are zucchini deficient, it’s not too late to start growing them either!
This versatile vegetable is easy to grow and can produce a bountiful harvest with just a few plants.
However, if you’ve ever grown zucchini before, you know that there’s one common problem: too much of it! People who grow zucchini always seem to have more than they can handle, and often end up giving it away to friends and family.
So why does this happen?
There are a few reasons.
First, zucchini plants are incredibly productive. They can produce up to 10 pounds of fruit per plant in just a few weeks.
Second, zucchini has a relatively short shelf life.
It’s best eaten within a few days of being harvested, so if you don’t use it quickly, it can go to waste. Finally, zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet.
This means that even if you have a lot of it, you can still find ways to use it up.
If you’re planning to grow zucchini this summer, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your harvest:
Plant in fertile soil – Zucchini plants need nutrient-rich soil to produce a healthy crop. Amend your soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Water regularly – Zucchini plants need consistent moisture to thrive. Water deeply once a week or more often during dry spells.
Harvest frequently – Check your plants regularly and harvest the zucchini when they are small and tender. This will encourage the plant to produce more fruit.
Use it up quickly – Zucchini is best eaten within a few days of being harvested. If you have too much, try freezing it for later use or giving it away to friends and family.
By following these tips, you can grow a bumper crop of zucchini and enjoy all the delicious ways to use it up. And if you do end up with more than you can handle, don’t worry – there’s always someone who will be happy to take it off your hands!