Why Courgette Flowers Fall Off (and What to Do)

Courgette plants often produce many flowers before fruit begins to develop. It’s common for some flowers to fall off, especially early in the season, and this usually isn’t a problem.

Courgette plants produce both male and female flowers, and only female flowers develop into courgettes.

Once plants are established and weather conditions improve, fruit production usually becomes more reliable.

Male flowers falling off

Courgette plants usually produce male flowers first.

These flowers grow on thin stems and do not produce fruit.

It’s normal for these flowers to fall off after a short time.

Female flowers usually appear later once the plant is more established.

Poor pollination

Courgettes rely on pollination to produce fruit.

If flowers are not pollinated, they may fall off without forming a courgette.

This can happen during:

• cool weather

• rainy conditions

• low insect activity

Once pollination improves, fruit usually begins to form.

Plant still establishing

Young courgette plants often focus on growing leaves and roots before producing vegetables.

This is especially common early in summer.

With time and warm weather, flowering usually becomes more productive.

Watering problems

Courgettes need consistent moisture.

Dry soil can stress plants and affect flower development.

Keep soil:

• moist

• not waterlogged

You can read more in how often to water a vegetable garden.

Temperature changes

Courgettes grow best in warm, stable conditions.

Cold nights or sudden weather changes can cause flowers to drop.

Growth usually improves once temperatures remain warm.

When to expect courgettes

In the UK, courgette plants usually begin producing vegetables in early to mid-summer.

Once fruit production begins, plants often produce regularly.

Harvesting frequently encourages more courgettes to grow.

For growing advice, see how to grow courgettes in the UK.

Flower drop is usually temporary

Courgette flowers falling off is usually part of normal plant development.

Once plants mature and conditions improve, courgette production usually increases quickly.

Patience often solves the problem.