How to Store Zucchini
Zucchini is best used young and stored only briefly. Handle it gently and keep it cool to slow shriveling and soft spots.
Best storage conditions
Store at 45 to 50 F with high humidity, about 90 to 95 percent. Keep it in the dark or low light, with some air circulation.
How long it keeps
About 4 to 7 days is typical, sometimes up to 1 to 2 weeks if harvested fresh and kept at the right temperature.
Storage methods
Do not wash before storage unless needed right away. Keep fruits dry and unwrapped or in a perforated bag, and avoid very cold fridge zones because chilling injury can develop. Do not stack heavily or leave it at warm room temperature for long.
Freezing & preserving
Freeze after washing, cutting, and blanching, or shred and freeze for baking. Dehydrating is possible but texture changes a lot. Pickling and relishes are also common, and any home canning should use tested USDA or NCHFP recipes.
Tips
Check often and use any fruit with nicks first. Store away from ethylene-producing apples, pears, and tomatoes.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.