Heirloom Eggplant Seed

Seeds or Seedlings 7 to 10 days, 60F to 95F 4 years Well Drained, High Fertility Part Shade 1/4" deep in flats 18" to 24 " apart 100 to 140

Growing Guide
GROWING NOTES
Prefers fertile, well-drained, slightly acid soil that is high in organic matter for best growth and yield, but tolerates a broader range of soil types. Has moderate moisture needs.

Tender annual.

Requires fertile soil and a long, warm growing season.

Relatively inconspicuous, curling down and hidden within foliage.

MAINTAINING
Start inside about 6 weeks before last frost date (or about 8 weeks before expected transplanting). Plant 1/4 inch deep in flats or cell-type containers. Keep soil warm (about 80 F to 90 F if possible) until emergence. Eggplant will not germinate in cool soil.

Harden off plants carefully before transplanting by reducing temperature and water.

Wait until weather has settled, all chance of frost has passed and soil is in the 60s F before transplanting, perhaps 2 to 3 weeks after the average last frost date. Cool conditions can weaken plants. Frost will kill them.

Consider using raised beds or black plastic mulch to warm soil and speed early-season growth. If using organic mulches to help retain moisture, do not apply until the soil has warmed.

Set transplants 18 to 24 inches apart in rows 30 to 36 inches apart.

Use row covers to protect plants from pests.

If season is cool, fruit set may be inconsistent. Plants with heavy fruit set benefit from staking.

Eggplants are heavy feeders, but avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers. They may encourage lush foliage growth at the expense of fruit.

Pinch off blossoms 2 to 4 weeks before first expected frost so that plants channel energy into ripening existing fruit, not producing new ones.

To help reduce disease, do not plant eggplants or other tomato-family crops in the same location more than once every three or four years.