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Pruning guide

How to prune zucchini / courgette

Best time
Midsummer onward as the lower canopy becomes crowded
How often
As needed through the growing season
Technique
Remove large, yellowing or powdery-mildew-affected lower leaves cleanly at the stem. Leave all healthy upper foliage and growing tips intact. Do not hard-prune the main stem — it does not branch usefully as a result.

More zucchini / courgette care

Pruning zucchini / courgette — FAQ

When should I prune zucchini / courgette?

Midsummer onward as the lower canopy becomes crowded. Remove large, yellowing or powdery-mildew-affected lower leaves cleanly at the stem. Leave all healthy upper foliage and growing tips intact. Do not hard-prune the main stem — it does not branch usefully as a result.

How often does zucchini / courgette need pruning?

As needed through the growing season. Zucchini benefits from removing older leaves at the plant base to improve airflow, reduce powdery mildew, and make fruits easier to spot and harvest. It does not need hard pruning. In confined spaces, you can remove a few large lower leaves as the season progresses. Pick fruits regularly — this is the single best way to keep plants producing.

How do you prune zucchini / courgette?

Remove large, yellowing or powdery-mildew-affected lower leaves cleanly at the stem. Leave all healthy upper foliage and growing tips intact. Do not hard-prune the main stem — it does not branch usefully as a result.