When to plant
Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Eggplant needs a long, warm season and won't tolerate any frost. Transplant only when nighttime temperatures stay above 13°C consistently. In short-season climates, choose fast-maturing varieties (65–70 days).
Soil & site
Eggplant needs warm, fertile, well-drained soil. pH 6.0–6.8. Work in compost before planting. Eggplant loves heat — plant in a sunny, sheltered spot or use black plastic mulch to warm soil. Raised beds warm up faster in spring, giving eggplant the heat it needs.
Feeding
Feed with a balanced fertilizer at transplanting. Once flowering begins, switch to a low-nitrogen, high-potassium formula to promote fruit development over leaf growth. Side-dress with compost monthly. Calcium deficiency causes blossom end rot — keep watering consistent.
Common problems
Flea beetles (tiny holes in leaves — row cover for young plants, diatomaceous earth). Colorado potato beetle (orange-yellow larvae on leaves — hand-pick daily). Aphids and spider mites in dry conditions. Verticillium wilt (yellowing, wilting despite water) — avoid planting eggplant where tomatoes or potatoes grew recently.
When to harvest
Eggplants are ready when the skin is glossy and dark (or the variety's expected colour), and the flesh springs back slightly when pressed. Dull, bronze, or wrinkled skin means over-maturity — seeds inside become hard and bitter. Most varieties are 10–15 cm long at harvest.
How to harvest
Use pruners or sharp scissors — the stem is tough and woody, never pull. Cut with 2–3 cm of stem attached. Harvesting frequently (every few days) encourages the plant to produce more fruit. Leaving mature fruit on the plant reduces yield significantly.
Storage & use
Eggplant is sensitive to cold — store at 10–13°C, not in the main refrigerator (which is too cold and causes chill injury within days). Use the vegetable crisper set warm, or store on a cool countertop for 3–5 days. Eggplant freezes well when cooked: roast, cube, and freeze.
Companion planting
Eggplant pairs well with peppers and basil. Marigolds help deter aphids and whiteflies.
Useful for growing eggplant
A few things that make this one easier — chosen for this plant, not a generic list.
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