How to Grow Zucchini Vertically

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If you’re thinking about growing zucchini vertically, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to do and how much less space it takes in your garden.

Fresh green and yellow zucchinis in a wooden box with zucchini plant in the background.

Growing zucchini vertically is a great option if you are short on garden space or just want a fun experiment in the garden.

By growing zucchini vertically, you’ll allow air to flow around the stems which will help ward off pests and disease. And, by pruning the plant as it grows, it makes it harder for pests to hide.

You can also use these same methods for growing yellow squash vertically.

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Different Methods to Grow Zucchini Vertically

When growing zucchini vertically, you have several different support structures to choose from, each with its unique advantages.

You can use a stake, a trellis or tomato cages.

Stake Method

Using a stake to grow your zucchini vertically is an easy way.

You’ll need a 5 foot (or taller) stake or a t-post – try and make sure the surface of the stake is somewhat rough. You’ll also need something to attach the plant to the stake such as garden velcro, twine or another material.

Next to the zucchini plant, place the stake in the ground as far as it will go. It should be placed right up against the stem.

You want do get the stake into the ground as soon as you can, before planting the zucchini if possible. This will make it so the zucchini roots aren’t disturbed.

As the zucchini plant stem grows, attach the zucchini plant to the stake. Make sure not to tie the stem onto the stake too tightly. Keep doing this as the zucchini continues to grow.

You also want to make sure to remove any leaves from the bottom, up until where it flowers.

Trellis Method

If you prefer to use a trellis, it’s very similar to the stake method, but you’ll be using a trellis instead of a stake.

Plant your zucchini plant close to the trellis, near where there is a support going up.

As your zucchini grows, you’ll attach the stem to this support. Tie the stem with garden velcro, zip ties or another material.

Prune the lower branches off of the zucchini plant, until you reach the first set of flowers. This will help with pests as well as allow the plant to put more energy into fruit production.