Sliced and whole Black Beauty zucchini with a green knife on a white background
A woman holding a large stack of Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash in her arms. Image by Lucy Hutchins.
Sliced and whole Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash with blooms on a pastel background.
Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash carved and sliced on a white washed wood background.
Breaded air fried Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash on a plate with garnish.
Sliced and whole Black Beauty zucchini with a green knife on a white background
A woman holding a large stack of Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash in her arms. Image by Lucy Hutchins.
Sliced and whole Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash with blooms on a pastel background.
Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash carved and sliced on a white washed wood background.
Breaded air fried Black Beauty Zucchini Summer Squash on a plate with garnish.

Summer Squash Seeds,
Zucchini Black Beauty

4.447 ReviewsSKU: #SSQ120Min. seed count: 20
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Description

(Cucurbita pepo). The classic dark green summer squash that has made modern zucchini of this type popular. Introduced into the U.S. markets in the 1920s, and seed companies started listing it in the 1930s. Delicious fried or baked; best picked young.

Growing Tips: Black Beauty is a classic, fast-growing summer squash known for its dark green skin and rich flavor. It thrives in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. This bush-type plant is highly productive, especially when harvested frequently. For best flavor and texture, pick fruits when they’re 6–8 inches long. Regular watering and consistent harvesting keep plants healthy and producing.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Cucurbita pepo
Life Cycle
Annual
Growth Habit
Bush
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
5–10
Days to Maturity
50–60
Planting Depth
1 in.
Plant Spacing
24–36 in.
Ideal Temperature
70–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant Black Beauty seeds after the last frost date when soil temperatures have reached 70°F or warmer. In cooler regions, start seeds indoors 2–4 weeks early and transplant after the risk of frost has passed. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds 1 inch deep in rich, well-draining soil in a sunny location. Space plants 24 to 36 inches apart to allow good air circulation. If starting indoors, use biodegradable pots and transplant after hardening off. Keep soil consistently moist during germination. Apply compost or organic fertilizer before planting to support early growth.

How to Grow

Water deeply and consistently, especially during flowering and fruit development. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of foliar diseases. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Fertilize every 3–4 weeks with compost or organic liquid fertilizer. Harvest often to encourage more fruiting and prevent oversized, tough zucchini.

How to Save Seeds

Note that there are four different species of squash: Cucurbita maxima, C. pepo, C. moschata, and C. mixta. They will not cross pollinate with each other, so it is possible to grow one of each species for seed saving without worrying about cross pollination. If you are planning to save seeds from several varieties of the same species, you can bag the blossoms and hand pollinate to avoid crossing.

  • Allow zucchini to mature fully on the vine until the skin is tough and dull-colored.
  • Harvest and cure in a warm, dry location for 2–3 weeks.
  • Cut the squash open and scoop out the seeds.
  • Rinse seeds thoroughly and remove all pulp.
  • Spread seeds in a single layer to dry in a ventilated area for 2–3 weeks.
  • Store dried seeds in an airtight, labeled container in a cool, dry place.

FAQ

How often should I harvest Black Beauty?

Harvest every 1–2 days during peak production. Picking zucchini when they are 6–8 inches long ensures tender texture and encourages the plant to continue producing new fruits.

Can Black Beauty grow in containers?

Yes, its bush habit makes it suitable for large containers (minimum 5 gallons). Use high-quality, well-draining soil and ensure the plant receives full sun and regular watering.

What pests should I watch for on Black Beauty zucchini?

Common pests include squash bugs, cucumber beetles, and squash vine borers. Inspect regularly and use row covers early in the season or apply organic controls to manage infestations.

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