A question from one of our growers this week:
“Has anyone started courgettes this year please? I’ve planted some at home in a propagator, which started growing very fast. They now look a bit leggy, despite being sat at a south-facing window sill… not sure if they are ok and if I should be looking at planting them outside soon.”
If this sounds familiar — you’re definitely not alone 😅
🌿 What’s happening here?
Courgettes are naturally fast growers. Give them a bit of warmth and they take off quickly — sometimes too quickly.
At this time of year, even a bright window isn’t quite enough light, so the plants stretch upwards and become “leggy”.
👉 It’s not a disaster — just a sign they’re a bit over-keen!
👍 Are they still OK?
Yes — they’ll be absolutely fine with a bit of care.
Leggy seedlings can be rescued and often go on to grow perfectly good plants.
🪴 What to do next
• Pot them on
Move them into larger pots soon — they’ll need the space.
• Plant a bit deeper
When repotting, bury the stem up to the seed leaves to help stabilise them.
• Maximise light
Keep them in the brightest spot you’ve got.
If possible, slightly cooler conditions will slow that stretching.
❄️ Can they go outside yet?
Not yet.
Courgettes are tender plants and don’t like cold conditions at all.
👉 Best planting time (Edinburgh / similar climates):
late May to early June
🌿 Grow it yourself
If you’re planning your own courgettes this year:
- Sow indoors: late April → early May
- Or direct sow outside: late May onwards
- Choose a sunny, sheltered spot
- Rich soil = happy courgettes
- Give them space — they spread!
👉 Tip: One or two plants is often plenty for a household.
🌱 Seed Bank
If you’re building up your own seed collection, look out for:
- Reliable varieties like:
- Black Beauty
- Defender
- All Green Bush
👉 See also:
Courgette (Cucurbita pepo) – Seed Bank Entry
🌼 A useful backup plan
If your current plants get a bit too leggy:
👉 Sow another batch in a couple of weeks
They grow so fast they’ll often catch up — and sometimes do better.
🧑🌾 A common lesson
Starting courgettes too early is something many of us try once…
…and then realise timing matters more than getting ahead!