How to Grow and Care for Eggplants

Eggplants are a cold-sensitive vegetable prized for their glossy fruits and versatility in the kitchen. Also known as aubergines, eggplants can thrive in your garden and reward you with a delicious harvest perfect for grilling, roasting, and cooking.

Planting Eggplants

Eggplants require warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight to grow successfully. Follow these steps to get them off to a strong start:

1. Site Selection:
   Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of full sunlight daily. Eggplants prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 5.8 to 6.5. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting to boost nutrients.

2. Starting Seeds or Transplants:

• From Seeds: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Use a seed-starting mix and provide consistent warmth (70-85°F) for germination.
• From Transplants: Harden off seedlings gradually and plant them outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 60°F.

3. Planting Outdoors:
   Plant eggplants 18-24 inches apart in rows spaced 2-3 feet apart. Dig holes deep enough to accommodate the roots and firm the soil around the base of the plant. Water thoroughly after planting.

Growing Eggplants

Eggplants are heavy feeders and require consistent care for strong growth and fruit production.

1. Watering and Mulching:
   Water eggplants regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Use mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil warm. Avoid letting the plants dry out, as inconsistent watering can cause bitter fruit.
2. Fertilizing:
   Eggplants benefit from a balanced fertilizer or compost application at planting. Consider using our Tomatoes Alive! Fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Once the plants start to flower, switch to a low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote fruit development. Feed every 2-3 weeks for optimal yields.
3. Supporting Plants:
   Some eggplant varieties produce heavy fruit that can weigh down the branches. Use plant supports like stakes or cages to support the plants and keep fruits off the ground, reducing the risk of rot and pests.
4. Pests and Diseases:
   Keep an eye out for common pests like flea beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Use row covers to protect young plants and organic insecticidal soap for infestations. Rotating crops and maintaining healthy soil can help prevent diseases such as wilt and blight.

Harvesting Eggplants

Eggplants are ready to harvest when they are firm, glossy, and reach their mature size. The ideal size depends on the variety, but most fruits are ready 70-90 days after planting.

1. Harvest Timing:
   Gently press the skin of the fruit with your thumb. If it springs back, it’s ready to pick. Overripe eggplants can become dull, bitter, and seedy.
2. Harvesting Method:
   Cut the fruit from the plant using pruners or a sharp knife, leaving about an inch of stem attached. Avoid pulling or twisting, as this can damage the plant.

Eggplant Care and Maintenance

To extend the growing season and maintain healthy plants:

• Water consistently, especially during hot, dry periods.
• Harvest fruits regularly to encourage continued production.
• Practice crop rotation annually to minimize pest and disease buildup.

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