Cut back zucchini leaves: more harvest, fewer pests
Created: 07/01/2022, 08:00
By: Joana Lück
Should you cut the zucchini leaves or not?
If they're infested with pests, you definitely should.
Munich – Light, tasty and very healthy: zucchini are one of the most popular summer vegetables and end up on the plate grilled, fried or twisted in the form of zoodles.
But what about the leaves of the beautiful plant?
Should you cut them off?
Cut back zucchini leaves: more harvest, fewer pests
Zucchini belong to the pumpkin family.
(Iconic image) © Shotshop/Imago
The plant could die off or a harvest could fail - there are numerous myths about cutting zucchini leaves.
The (correct) cutting of the leaves of the pumpkin plant can even stimulate growth, similar to cutting out tomatoes.
But it's still important to know that zucchini need their leaves for photosynthesis and use them for shade.
You should note the following:
Like all cucurbits, zucchini plants can reach sprawling proportions and also grow very quickly.
Their leaves often reach a diameter of up to 30 centimeters.
Infected leaves should be removed in any case: This can be done with a sharp knife or sharp pruning shears.
Under no circumstances should you tear off the leaf with your hands, as this can damage the whole plant.
More harvest: If you remove weak leaves or leaves that are even infested with pests, the plant has more energy that it can invest in the fruit.
But: If the plant is too bare, it lacks the energy for fruit development.
In addition, the young leaves and fruits at the base are not adequately protected from the sun and can suffer burns.
You don't have to throw away healthy, cut leaves, you can enjoy them as well as the fruit and the flower.
The latter tastes particularly good stuffed and fried and is a delicacy throughout Italy.
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One solution if your zucchini leaves are growing over your head again: let the plant climb.
With the help of a rose arch, you can transform your garden into a shady oasis in no time at all.
Special climbing zucchini are particularly suitable for this location, which does not mean that you should not attach the plant to the arch at the beginning and again and again.
Alternatively, you can also tie annoying leaves together with a cord.