Eggplant

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How to grow: Eggplant

Pest management: Eggplant cultural tips, pests, and diseases

The Basics

When to plant

• Transplant: May–June
• For best results, wait until daytime temperatures are regularly over 75°F
• Start in pots for transplants: February–April; ready to transplant in 8 weeks

Harvest window: August–October, two to three months after transplanting, depending on variety.

Care overview

• Eggplants require warm to hot weather throughout the season for good production. Hot caps or row covers can be used to elevate temperatures. Planting in a container will also help in absorbing heat.
• Hand-pollinate by shaking the flowers to improve the fruit set.
• Stake plants to prevent branches from breaking due to fruit production and to keep the fruit off the soil.
• Harvest when the flesh is glossy and gives slightly under thumb pressure. Use a pruning shears or knife to clip the stem.
• Don't leave mature fruit on the plants because it will suppress new fruit production.

Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County^*

Other recommended varieties: Black Beauty, Casper, Ichiban, Neon, Violette di Firenze

^* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.