The undemanding zucchini is an ideal vegetable for the balcony. Some varieties require little space and are therefore also suitable for growing in pots. With the right conditions, you can give your balcony zucchini a good start.
How can I grow zucchini on the balcony?
To successfully plant zucchini on the balcony, you need a sufficiently large container (at least 15l), nutrient-rich soil, regular watering, a sunny location and suitable zucchini varieties such as Black Forrest F1, Patio Star F1, Summer Ball F1 or mini zucchini piccolo F1.
The right vessel
While a larger gap in the bed is sufficient for growing zucchini in the garden, the balcony zucchini needs a sufficiently large container. In order for the plant to spread well, it should be a pot with at least 15 l capacity. A good size is a bucket with a diameter of approx. 40 cm. Flower boxes are unsuitable as they offer neither space nor support for the plant.
The larger the pot, the more productive the plant is. However, you have to keep in mind that the bucket becomes quite heavy due to the water. If you can't estimate how stable your balcony is, it's better to choose a smaller pot.
To avoid waterlogging, a drainage hole in the floor (€74.00 on Amazon) is necessary. If you cover it with pottery shards or stones, the water can drain away without washing out the soil.
A sunny place
On the balcony, the zucchini needs a location that is in the sun for at least a few hours. Ideally this is the south balcony.
Soil, fertilization, watering
Use nutrient-rich soil to fill the plant pot. You can also mix in compost. Horn shavings and liquid fertilizer are also suitable for supplying nutrients.
Zucchini plants need a lot of water. Regular watering is important, especially during the flowering period and in midsummer.
Suitable zucchini varieties for the balcony
- Black Forrest F1 with 10 - 25 cm long green fruits, space-saving, climbing plant, tendrils can be guided upwards on a climbing aid
- Patiostar F1: compact plant with dark green fruits
- Summer Ball F1 with golden yellow round fruits
- Mini zucchini piccolo F1, green striped fruits
You can grow zucchini plants yourself from seeds without much effort or buy them at a garden store.
Fruits and flowers
Once the zucchini has been planted, it takes about 6 – 8 weeks until you can harvest the first fruits. The young fruits taste best and with an early harvest you can increase further yields. Until then, the edible, white or yellow flowers will decorate your balcony.
Tips & Tricks
Instead of a flower pot, you can also grow your zucchini in a used painter's pot or water bucket. It is important that the container is cleaned well before use.
