Is vertical growing effective for zucchini?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Vertical zucchini cultivation enhances gardening efficiency by maximizing space utilization and improving plant health. As the foliage is trained in an upright position, there is better airflow and a lower likelihood of mildew, which is a common problem when plants are planted directly into the ground. I have been able to double the yield from the amount of square feet used since establishing the vertical methods. This system is particularly well-suited for small gardens, apartments, or small offices with balconies.
Structural Framework
- Install 6-8 ft stakes at planting time
- Use cattle panel arches for multiple plants
- Space supports 18-24 inches apart
Plant Training
- Tie stems loosely with soft fabric strips
- Redirect vines clockwise around supports
- Prune lateral shoots below first fruit
Container Adaptation
- Use tomato cages in large pots
- Attach trellis to container edges
- Add weights to prevent tipping
Select compact or vining varieties that are suited for vertical growth. 'Black Forest' grows habitually, while bushy types such as 'Raven' require training. Avoid gargantuan types that hog support. My 'Tromboncino' vines reach 10 feet, bearing straight fruits that are ideal for vertical display.
Pruning methods also differ markedly in vertical systems. Leaves are removed weekly from below the lowest hanging fruit to allow air flow through the canopy. Lateral shoots are pinched off to redirect energy to the main stems. Clean shears should always be used to prevent the spread of disease organisms from plant to plant.
Zucchini grows differently when planted vertically in water and fed. The drippers should be placed at the base of the plant to water the roots directly. A liquid fertilizer should be applied every 10 days once the plant is bearing fruit, as the nutrients will be washed through the containers more quickly. My plants grown vertically will require 25% more water than the plants in the ground during a hot weather spell.
Shield vertical structures from the wind in exposed areas by anchoring trellises with ground stakes about 12 inches deep. Use stretchy plant ties that allow the stem to grow. I keep my cattle panel system anchored down with concrete footings for storm season.
Read the full article: When to Plant Zucchini for a Bountiful Harvest
