When to Plant (Indoors):
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your average last frost date. Eggplants have a long growing season and need a significant head start.
Direct sowing outdoors is not recommended in any climate except for the very hottest, longest-season areas.
When to Plant (Outdoors):
Transplant seedlings outdoors 1-2 weeks after all danger of frost has passed.
Crucially, wait until the weather is stable and warm. Nighttime temperatures should be consistently above 55-60 degrees F. Planting in cool soil will permanently stunt the plants.
Where to Plant:
Sunlight: Full, direct sun. Eggplants are heat-lovers and need at least 6-8 hours of blazing sun per day.
Soil: Plant in rich, fertile, well-drained soil. Eggplants are heavy feeders. Generously amend your soil with 2-3 inches of aged compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8.
Rotation: Do not plant where tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, or other eggplants have grown for the past 3 years to prevent soil-borne diseases.
How to Plant (Seed Starting):
Depth: Plant seeds 1/4 inch deep in a sterile seed-starting mix.
Warmth: Use a seedling heat mat. This is the most important step for good germination. Set the mat to 75-85 degrees F.
Germination: Be patient. Even with heat, germination can take 7-14 days.
Light: As soon as seedlings sprout, place them under strong grow lights or in a very sunny south-facing window.
Potting Up: When seedlings develop two sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger 4-inch pots to give their roots room to grow.
How to Plant (Transplanting):
Harden Off: Before planting outdoors, acclimate your seedlings to the sun and wind for 7-10 days. Start with 1 hour in a protected spot and gradually increase their time outdoors.
Spacing: Space plants 18-24 inches apart.
Rows: Space rows 24-36 inches apart to allow for good airflow.
Support: Install a sturdy stake or small cage at the time of planting. The heavy fruits will weigh down the branches and can cause them to break.
Growing and Care:
Watering: Water deeply and consistently, aiming for 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Water at the base of the plant. Irregular watering can lead to blossom end rot.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch (like straw or shredded leaves) after the soil has fully warmed up. This retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps the soil warm.
Fertilizing: As heavy feeders, they need regular food. Side-dress with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer or a dose of compost tea every 3-4 weeks once the first fruits begin to set.
Harvesting:
When: Harvest fruits when they are 6-8 inches long and the skin is firm, glossy, and has a deep, uniform color.
How: Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the stem about 1 inch above the fruit's cap (calyx). Do not pull the fruit, as the stems are tough and you can damage the plant.
Pro-Tip: If you gently press the skin with your thumb and the indentation springs back, it's ready. If the indentation stays, the fruit is overripe and may be seedy or bitter. A dull skin also signals over-ripeness. Harvest regularly to encourage the plant to produce more.
