How to Germinate Zucchini

Choose a patch of land with fertile, well-drained soil that contains plenty of organic matter. This area should also receive full sunlight for six to 10 hours each day.

Wait for the soil temperature to reach at least 60 F since zucchini seeds do not germinate in cold soil. Ideally, the soil temperature should be about 95 F; up to 105 F is acceptable.

Sow two to three seeds in one spot, leaving 24 to 36 inches between plantings. Each group of seeds yields one viable plant, so continue until you sow enough seeds to produce the number of zucchini plants you want. If you are planting in a hill, sow four to five seeds 48 inches apart.

Cover each group of seeds with about 1 inch of soil and add enough water to reach the seeds.

Cut some of the zucchini plants with garden shears when the seedlings are 2 to 3 inches tall. Choose the most vigorous plant in each group and cut the others. This prevents overcrowding and allows the plants you choose to obtain maximum amounts of nutrients.