Courgette Season UK | When to Grow, Harvest & Enjoy Courgettes

Introduction: The Best Time for British Courgettes

Courgettes (also known as zucchini) are a beloved summer vegetable in the UK, prized for their versatility, ease of growing, and delicate flavour. Whether you’re planting your own or shopping locally, understanding the courgette season in the UK helps you make the most of this tasty crop — from garden to plate.

When Is Courgette Season in the UK?

In the UK, courgettes are typically in season from June to September, with the peak harvest occurring in July and August. Thanks to their fast growth and regular production, courgette plants can provide a continuous supply of fruit throughout the summer months.

Courgette Season Timeline

March–April: Start seeds indoors
May–June: Transplant outside after the last frost
June–September: Harvest regularly when fruits reach 10–15cm long
October: Final pickings before the first frost

Why Eat Courgettes in Season?

Better Flavour – Fresher, firmer, and more flavourful
More Affordable – In-season produce is cheaper and more plentiful
Lower Environmental Impact – Fewer food miles if grown locally
Nutrient-Rich – Retains more vitamins and minerals when harvested fresh

Growing Courgettes in the UK

Sowing & Planting:

Start seeds indoors in April
Transplant outside in late May or early June, once all risk of frost has passed
Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot with fertile, well-drained soil
Courgettes can also be grown in large containers or raised beds

Harvesting Tips:

Pick courgettes when they’re small and tender (10–15cm)
Harvest every few days to encourage continued production
Larger courgettes (called marrows) are edible but can be tougher and have more seeds

Courgette Varieties to Try in the UK

‘Defender F1’ – Popular, disease-resistant, and heavy-cropping
‘Tondo di Nizza’ – Round courgettes, great for stuffing
‘Gold Rush’ – Bright yellow courgettes with a sweet flavour
‘Patty Pan’ – Squat, scalloped courgettes with unique shape and taste

How to Use Courgettes During the Season

Grilled or BBQ’d – Perfect for summer barbecues
In Bakes and Fritters – Add to savoury muffins or courgette fritters
In Pasta or Lasagne – Slice into ribbons or layer into vegetarian bakes
Courgette Cake – Grate into lemon or chocolate cake for extra moisture
Raw in Salads – Thinly sliced or spiralised with lemon and olive oil

Buying British Courgettes

Look for firm, shiny, unblemished courgettes in green or yellow
Choose smaller ones for tenderness and fewer seeds
Visit local farmers’ markets or farm shops during July–August for the freshest supply

Storage Tips

Store courgettes in the fridge for up to 5 days
Keep them dry and unwashed until ready to use
Avoid airtight plastic bags – store in a paper bag or vegetable drawer

Conclusion

Courgette season in the UK runs from June to September, bringing an abundance of fresh, flavourful veg perfect for light summer meals. Whether you’re growing your own or supporting local farmers, eating courgettes in season means better taste, better value, and better for the planet. With so many ways to cook and enjoy them, courgettes truly are a summer kitchen essential.