Ontario Grows More Zucchini & Squash Than any Other Province
Ontario has the largest field vegetable sector in Canada, with approximately 859,000 tonnes of field vegetables produced in 2024, representing about 34% of total Canadian field vegetable production. Quebec was second at about 694,000 tonnes. Ontario also has the largest number of field vegetable farms in Canada, with about 1,430 farms, compared with 1,035 in Quebec and 993 in British Columbia.
3,566 hectares are devoted to squash & zucchinis growing across the country. Ontario is widely regarded as Canada's leading commercial zucchini-producing province. Norfolk, Chatham-Kent, Essex, Lambton, Elgin, and Niagara are significant producers of squash and zucchini crops.
Local produce distributors indicated that Ontario-grown zucchini began arriving in mid-June, with supplies increasing through July as harvest activity accelerates.
The reason zucchini is grown primarily in Southern Ontario is because of the warm temperatures, fertile soils, and long frost-free periods which create ideal conditions for summer squash production.
Early indications suggest the 2026 zucchini crop has benefited from a generally favorable to the growing season. Industry sources noted in June that Ontario zucchini harvests were beginning on schedule, although growers continued monitoring rainfall and humidity levels. Unlike some vegetable crops that can be sensitive to prolonged wet conditions, zucchini can perform well when temperatures remain warm and fields are properly managed.
Because zucchini is a fast-growing crop, farmers can often begin harvesting within 45 to 55 days after planting. Warm soil temperatures and consistent summer heat help drive rapid growth and strong production.
One of the most interesting facts about zucchini is its remarkable productivity. A healthy plant can produce multiple fruits each week during peak season, making it one of the highest-yielding vegetables in commercial plantings alike.
Photo Credit: pexels-freestockpro