- meaning of the leaves
- Cut off in case of lack of space
- Cut leaves: Other reasons
- frequently asked Questions
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The zucchini (Cucurbita pepo subsp. pepo convar. giromontiina) has relatively large leaves and is a fast-growing type of pumpkin. The expert explains how important the zucchini leaves are and how and when it is better to cut them off.
In a nutshell
- Zucchini leaves have important functions
- cut off only when absolutely necessary
- especially in the case of diseases and pests
- never cut off all the leaves
meaning of the leaves
Without the foliage, the courgettes die because they are essential to life photosynthesis needed, from which the plant draws a large part of its energy. With each leaf removed, the conversion of chlorophyll into chemical energy is reduced. The result can be less fruit growth, stunted courgettes and, in the worst case, plant death.
Furthermore, the large leaves serve as shade provider. They ensure that the soil does not burn from the hot sun and dries out quickly because less water evaporates. Thus, the foliage also has a protective function. You should therefore think carefully about whether you really want to cut off the leaves of the zucchini.
Cut off in case of lack of space
In principle, there is nothing wrong with occasionally cutting off one or two sheets. Home growers often don't think twice about sending their zucchinis to a location to plant, which offers enough space in all directions. Then it quickly happens that the large leaves cover neighboring plants and damage them. If it's just a leaf or two, the courgettes will be fine, provided the plants are strong enough.
If zucchini forms yellow leaves, you should react immediately.
Nevertheless, it should be taken into account that the plant receives less energy and that yellow leaf discolouration can also form. These must also be cut off. Ideally, it should therefore be considered whether transplanting the neighboring plants is the better option in order to avoid any risk.
Cut leaves: Other reasons
There are good reasons why cutting off the zucchini leaves is unavoidable. These include the following:
case of illness
Zucchinis are prone to fungal infestation, which can manifest as powdery mildew and downy mildew. In both variants, the fungus spreads quickly. If it is recognized quickly, you should quickly tackle the fight. If the infestation and thus also the damage is in an advanced stage with rolled-up leaf edges, you have no choice but to cut off the affected foliage. Otherwise the fruit formation is massively disturbed.
Treating powdery mildew on zucchini
To treat powdery mildew, proceed as follows:
- Mix whole or raw milk with water (ratio 1:8)
- fill in spray container
- Spray the plant until dripping wet (especially the surfaces and undersides of the leaves)
- Frequency of use: every two days
- Duration of treatment: two weeks
Tip: Never dispose of the fungus-affected foliage on the compost heap. From there, the fungus easily spreads again. Fungus-infested plant parts always belong in the household waste or in the organic bin.
pest infestation
Aphids (Aphidoidea) are zucchini's biggest enemies. An infestation can be recognized by the tiny pests that often gather in colonies on the stems and leave yellow sucking marks on the leaves. Curled leaf edges are typical of an infestation. If they have already settled en masse on the foliage, the fastest and most effective solution is to cut them off. At the same time, you should fight surviving specimens with a baking soda solution.
A baking soda and water mixture for controlling zucchini aphids is easy to make.
That's how it's done:
- Add a tablespoon of baking soda to 100 milliliters of water and mix
- fill in spray container
- Spray the plant completely until dripping wet
- Frequency of use: daily
- Duration of treatment: one week
- then spray the plant to remove baking soda residue from the leaves (for intact photosynthesis)
leaf consumption
The leaves of the zucchini are edible. If it is used for consumption, nothing should stand in the way of cutting off the leaves of the zucchini. It should only be paid attention to a small amount and be limited to young leafy green. This is the most aromatic anyway.
Tip: Zucchini leaves are best cut off just above the base of the stalk. The risk of infection in connection with a "clean" interface is lowest there.
Choose the right cutting tool
If you want to cut off the leaves of the zucchini, you should always use a disinfected and sharp cutting tool. Disinfection is recommended to eliminate any bacteria, viruses or germs that may have adhered to it. Sharpness is important so that a smooth cut is achieved and no picking or pulling is required. This could cause roots to loosen or break off.
frequently asked Questions
Can I also tie up zucchini leaves if there is not enough space?No, you shouldn't do that. Tying them together has a negative effect on ventilation. This in turn increases the risk of fungal disease and consequently the crop. Truncating offers the better solution here.
Is a zucchini pruned for overwintering?As a rule, zucchinis are only cultivated once a year. A pruning is not necessary.
Can the flowers be cut off?Yes, that even provides more energy that a zucchini can put into fruiting. Here you cut off directly under the petals above the thickening. The fruit later develops from this thickening. By the way, the flowers of a zucchini are edible.