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Noche is a dark green, productive zucchini cultivar bred for excellent flavor and consistent yields. It is grown for its tender summer squash fruit, which is harvested young for culinary use in sautéing, grilling, and baking. Gardeners favor this cultivar for its disease resistance and reliable performance in home gardens.

Zucchini seeds germinate best at soil temperatures of 70–85°F and typically sprout within 7–10 days. They prefer warm soil and do not require light to germinate, but should not be started in cold soil. No pre-treatment is necessary; direct sowing after last frost when soil has warmed is most reliable.

Direct sow seeds 1 inch deep in hills or rows spaced 24–36 inches apart after the last spring frost and soil has warmed to at least 60°F. In zone 7 Maryland, this is typically late May. Sow 3–4 seeds per hill and thin to the strongest plant once true leaves emerge. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost and transplant after hardening off, spacing transplants 24–36 inches apart.

Water deeply and consistently, aiming for 1–1.5 inches per week; irregular watering causes bitter fruit and blossom-end rot. Fertilize every 3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or side-dress with compost once flowering begins. Noche has good powdery mildew resistance but monitor for squash bugs and cucumber beetles; hand-pick eggs and use row covers early in the season. Ensure good air circulation by removing lower leaves as the plant matures.

Harvest fruit when 6–8 inches long for peak tenderness and flavor; smaller fruit tends to be less watery and more tender. Check plants every 2–3 days during peak season, as zucchini grows rapidly. Cut fruit with a sharp knife rather than twisting to avoid plant damage. Store unwashed fruit in a cool place or refrigerator for up to one week; do not wash until ready to use.