Eggplants are very tender - do not set them out until daytime temperatures are in the 70° F range.
Acidity (pH) Tolerance
6.8 to 5.5 pH
Salinity (Ec) Tolerance
2.5
How Pollinated
insects
Growth Habits
Short lived perennial grown as an annual.
Additional Information
Fertilizer Requirements
Use a complete fertilizer when planting. Put 3 to 4 tablespoons of fertilizer (16, 16, 8) into a hole about 2 to 3 inches deeper than the plant root and about 4 inches to the side of the eggplant when transplanting.
Side dress with nitrogen fertilizer about every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Water Utilization
Water frequently for a week or two after transplanting, gradually diminishing frequency and increasing depth of penetration.
After that, thoroughly soak the soil about once a week. Eggplant should not be sprinkled late in the day. Use a plastic or organic mulch around the plants to maintain uniform soil moisture levels. Water deeply to encourage deep root growth. Established plants require about 1" of water per week.
Plant Development and Care
Bushes grow to 2 to 3' high and wide. Plant develops large leaves with a purple tinge to them. Violet flowers are 1 1/2" across and drooping.
Plants are attractive enough to serve as a border between vegetable and flower gardens.
Eggplants prefer well-drained, rich soils and warm temperatures. Fertilize at the beginning of the season. The soil around the plants should be kept uniformly moist throughout the growing season.
Apply side dressing of fertilizer about every four weeks during growing season.
Germination Time (Days)
13 days at 68° F 8 days at 77° F 5 days at 86° F or higher
Container Gardens