Black Beauty Zucchini Seeds
Black Beauty Zucchini Seeds
This highly popular and remarkably productive squash variety, ideal for both home gardening and shipping, reaches maturity in approximately 55 days. The semi-upright plants of the Black Beauty grow glossy black-green fruits, which typically measure around 20 centimeters in length and 5 centimeters in diameter. These fruits are at their best when harvested young, boasting tender, creamy-white flesh with a superb flavor that makes them a culinary delight.
First introduced to American gardeners in the 1920s, Black Beauty Zucchini quickly gained popularity, becoming well-known by the 1930s. Renowned for its ease of cultivation and exceptional quality, this heirloom variety played a significant role in popularizing the use of zucchini. Its outstanding attributes were duly recognized when it received the prestigious AAS Award in 1957.
Black Beauty Zucchini remains a reliable choice for planting in home vegetable gardens, consistently delivering abundant yields. With its glossy greenish-black appearance, these blocky, straight vegetables are versatile in the kitchen, suitable for frying, slicing, and baking.
Expect a bountiful harvest from Black Beauty, as it is renowned for its prolific nature, producing an abundance of zucchini throughout the summer season. Whether for baking, storage, or sharing with neighbors, this variety ensures there's always plenty to go around.
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How To Grow
How To Grow
Sowing: Gardeners in regions with short growing seasons may opt to start their squash seeds indoors approximately one month prior to the last expected frost. As squashes do not transplant well, it's advisable to use peat pots for sowing. Plant two seeds per pot and later remove the weaker seedling. To toughen up the seedlings, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions for several hours each day in the week leading up to transplanting. Once the soil temperature averages around 18 degrees Celsius, which typically occurs about a week after the last frost, transplant the seedlings into nutrient-rich soil, spacing them 2.4-3 meters apart in rows spaced 3-3.7 meters apart. Alternatively, you can plant seedlings in pairs, with each pair spaced 2.4-3 meters apart. For direct sowing, wait until the soil temperature reaches at least 21 degrees Celsius. Plant seeds 1.3 cm deep, spaced 90-120 cm apart, and later thin to 2.4-3 meters apart. When considering companion planting, squash pairs well with corn but should be kept away from potatoes.
Growing: Since squash seedlings are sensitive to frost, provide protective coverings if temperatures drop below 18 degrees Celsius. Maintain consistently moist soil, while avoiding wetting the leaves to prevent diseases such as rot or mildew. Once vines begin to develop, apply a layer of mulch to conserve moisture, control weeds, and keep the squashes clean while also protecting them from excessive soil contact.
Harvesting
Harvesting
Zucchini are best harvested when they reach a length of 10-12 cm. Once the plant starts producing mature zucchini, harvest every one to two days. Zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks and freeze well.
Seed Saving
Seed Saving
By the time the squash reaches maturity, the Black Beauty zucchini summer squash seeds are also mature. Cut the squash open, remove the pulp and seeds, and rinse off the pulp. Place the mixture in a bowl of water to remove the remaining pulp; the viable seeds will sink. Dry the seeds for 2-3 weeks, stirring them occasionally to ensure thorough drying. Store Black Beauty zucchini summer squash seeds in a cool, dry place for up to four years.
Extra Facts
Extra Facts
Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor, Hydroponics
Blooming Season: Summer
Planting Season: Late Spring to Early Summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Cucurbita pepo/ 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Sunlight Required/ Height: Full Sun/ 60-90 cm
Shelf Life After Test Date: Ensuring the viability of your Black Beauty Zucchini Seeds is crucial for a successful harvest. These seeds maintain their optimal germination rate for up to 2-3 years after the test date. Stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, the seeds retain their vitality, allowing Canadian gardeners the flexibility to plan and plant for multiple growing seasons.
Seed Type: Open-Pollinated
Soil Type: Loam Soil