Eggplant is a fast-growing, warm-season vegetable that should be planted in the mid- to late spring.
Note that eggplant’s leaves, stems, roots, and flowers can be toxic to peopleand pets.
Or transplant nursery plants into the garden once there is absolutely no danger of frost in the spring.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Selecting a Planting Site
A sunny spot with well-draining soil is key for growing eggplant.
A raised garden bed or container can be ideal because the soil will warm up faster than the ground.
you could also build a bamboo cage, or use a coated metal tomato cage.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Eggplant Care
Light
Eggplants aresun lovers.
ensure they get at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days.
Soil
An organically rich, loamy soil with sharp drainage is ideal.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
Moreover, eggplant can grow in a soil pH that ranges from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Eggplants with abnormal shapes can be the result of inconsistent watering.
The Spruce / Gyscha Rendy
A moderate humidity level is best.
Very high humidity can cause the pollen to become too sticky and not pollinate the plant.
Fertilizer
When planting seedlings, mix compost or a5-10-10 fertilizerinto the soil, following label instructions.
Fertilize again when the first eggplants are still very small, followed by another feeding a few weeks later.
Pollination
Eggplant self-pollinates, usually with the help of the wind.
Butpollinating insectsalso can assist with the process.
They also have similar textures and can be interchanged for one another in some recipes.
Harvesting Eggplant
In general, eggplantis harvestedin the mid- to late summer, depending on the variety.
It tastes best when harvested fairly young, so check plants often for eggplants that are just becoming ripe.
Transplants will take roughly 65 to 80 days to maturity while seeds will take 100 to 120 days.
Pick eggplants with skin that is glossy and unwrinkled.
They also should have a little give to them.
Eggplant can be eaten raw, but its most commonly baked, grilled, or cooked in another way.
It can be stored in the refrigerator uncut and unwashed for about a week.
Wash just prior to using.
The container should be at least five gallons and have ample drainage holes.
Pruning
Pruning typically isnt necessary when growing eggplant as an annual.
Leave the main stem, along with the first two stems that branch off from it.
This pruning should encourage vigorous new growth for the next growing season.
Moisten the soil with a spray bottle, as the watering must be very gentle until the seeds germinate.
ensure the plastic wrap has condensation on its underside.
If it doesn’t, it’s time to mist the soil again before recovering the container.
Add stakes to the container at that time to support the plant as it grows.
Overwintering
Outside of its growing zones, most gardeners grow eggplant as an annual.
So overwintering isn’t necessary.
But when grown as a perennial, it should beprotected from cold weatherand frost.
Some problematic pests can be flea beetles, cutworms, tomato hornworms, andColorado potato beetles.
Diseases include powdery mildew and verticillium wilt.
Look for pest- and disease-resistant varieties, and aim to provide optimal growing conditions.
Healthy plants are able to ward off many pest and disease issues.
Eggplant is easy to grow as long as the plants get enough light and heat.
In general, it takes 100 to 120 days to go from seed to harvestable eggplants.
Eggplant.North Carolina State University Extension
Deadly Nightshade.ASPCA, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/deadly-nightshade.
Home Garden Eggplant.University of Georgia Extension
