Description
Botanical name
Solanum melongena
Family
Solanaceae
Spacing
18-24 inches apart, with rows 30-36 inches apart
Depth
1/4 to 1/2 inch deep
Sun & Soil Requirements
- Full sun
- Fertile, well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5
- At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day
Indoors
- Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date
- Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 6-8 inches tall and the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15.6°C)
Outdoors
Plant outdoors in the garden after the last expected frost date when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15.6°C)
Germination Time
7-14 days, depending on soil temperature
Companion Planting
- Plant with beans, peppers, and tomatoes
- Avoid planting with fennel or kohlrabi
Watering requirements
- Consistent moisture
- Deep watering but infrequently
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
Fertilizer requirements
- Balanced fertilizer at planting time and once a month thereafter
- Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen
Pests
- Susceptible to flea beetles, aphids, and spider mites
- Use row covers to protect against flea beetles
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids and spider mites
Timing
- Plant after last expected frost date
- 60-80 days to maturity
Growing
- Staking or supporting is recommended
- Prune the plant to promote fruit development and air circulation
- Pinch off any flowers that appear before the plant has reached 12-18 inches in height to encourage more vegetative growth
Harvest Tips
- Harvest when firm and glossy, but before the skin starts to dull or turn yellow
- Cut the eggplant stem with a sharp knife or pruners leaving a small portion of stem attached to the fruit
Season Tolerance
- Heat-loving plants
- Do not tolerate frost
- Protect if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C)
