Plan to harvest a given planting only 2 to 3 weeks and then start harvesting another planting. This will keep quality at its best and will allow a longer marketing season. Zucchini fruits should be harvested when they are 7 to 8 inches long. Scallop types are harvested when they are 3 to 4 inches in diameter. Storage Summer squash are very tender and normally should not be stored except to accommodate holidays, weekends, etc.
Deterioration is rapid after such storage.
Because of greater possibilities for diseases and insects, the fall crop is more difficult to produce than a spring crop. Viruses are the major problem. In eastern North Carolina, the crop should be planted no later than August 20. For western North Carolina, planting should be complete by July 20 to August 1. A rigid control program will be necessary for both insects and diseases.