Courgette Zucchini Seeds

Sow your courgette seeds indoors from April to May, pushing them 2cm deep into small pots of compost and keeping them at about 20 °C; they should sprout within 5-7 days. Once the frost has passed, slowly get your plants used to being outside over 7-10 days before planting them out 90cm apart in a sunny spot. If you prefer to sow directly into the ground, wait until late May to June and pop two Courgette Zucchini seeds per hole, removing the weaker seedling once they've sprouted. Keep them well watered and pick regularly for the best harvest.

Pick your courgettes when they are around 10-15cm (4-6") long for the best flavour and texture. At this size, they are tender, sweet and perfect for cooking or eating raw. The more you pick, the more the plant will produce, so check your plants every couple of days during summer, as courgettes can grow surprisingly fast. If you miss one and it grows into a marrow, remove it straight away to encourage the plant to keep producing.

Yes, courgettes can be grown successfully in pots on a patio or balcony. Choose a large container at least 45cm wide and deep, fill it with good-quality peat-free compost, and place it in a warm, sunny spot. Plants in pots will need more frequent watering than those in the ground, so check them daily during warm weather. A regular liquid feed every couple of weeks will also help keep them productive throughout the season.