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. Plastic coated with aluminum or white paint will help reduce virus by disorienting the aphids that spread the disease and discouraging them from landing on the squash leaves. Spraying every third day with stylet oil at 400 to 600 psi will reduce virus, also.