Courgettes are warm-season crops that perform best with daytime temperatures between 22°C and 27°C during their rapid vegetative growth phase to establish a strong leaf canopy. Once the plant begins to flower and set fruit, it prefers slightly more moderate temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, as extreme heat above 30°C can cause pollination failure or a skip in fruit production. They are highly sensitive to frost at any stage and require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to support their fast-paced metabolic demands.

These plants thrive in moderate relative humidity, ideally between 50% and 70%, which helps prevent their large leaves from wilting. However, they require excellent air circulation because high, stagnant humidity (above 80%) makes them extremely prone to powdery mildew, a fungal disease that can quickly cover the foliage. Using drip irrigation to keep the leaves dry is a key strategy for managing this risk.

The ideal soil is a rich, fertile, and well-draining sandy loam that can accommodate the plant’s powerful and deep root system. Courgettes are “heavy feeders” that require high levels of organic matter to support their fast fruit production. While they need consistent moisture, they are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot and poor nutrient uptake.

For optimal growth and fruit development, maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Staying within this range ensures the plant can easily access the nutrients required for its rapid growth; if the soil becomes too acidic (below 5.5), the plant may struggle with calcium uptake, which often leads to the failure of young fruits.