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Growing Eggplant, also Aubergine

(Solanum sp.)

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  S S   P              

(Best months for planting Eggplant in USA - Zone 5a regions)

S = Plant undercover in seed trays. P = Plant direct in garden where they are to grow.


  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 75°F and 90°F. (Show °C/cm)
  • Space plants: 24 - 30 inches apart
  • Harvest in 12-15 weeks. Cut fruit with scissors or sharp knife.
  • Compatible with: Beans, capsicum, lettuce, amaranth, thyme
  • Avoid growing with: Potatoes
  • A seedling
  • Eggplant

A large bushy plant with attractive purple flowers. Has spiky stems. Wear gloves to harvest fruit as the spikes on the calyx are sharp enough to break one's skin.

In United Kingdom - grow in heated greenhouse. Reduce artificial heat during summer months

Needs a long season. Start under cover and plant out when frosts have finished.

Some varieties with slim, long fruit such as Asian Bride produce their fruit earlier. Mulch well and keep well watered. May need staking

Culinary hints - cooking and eating Eggplant

Cut and use the same day if possible.
Slice, no need to peel, and fry in olive oil.
Brush with oil and grill or bake.
Or microwave,plain, for about 4 minutes on high.
Makes a good substitute for pasta in lasagne or moussaka.
Can be smoked over a gas ring or barbecue, cooled and peeled and used to make dips.


Your comments and tips

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21 Aug 11, Gayle Bryan (USA - Zone 8b climate)
I see that you recommend planting eggplant in the spring. Before I found this website, I was using UF's recommendations which supported planting eggplant in the fall. Will eggplant planted in the fall produce much fruit?
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Post a question, comment or tip about Eggplant

I planted seedlings (varieties) early December and started harvesting very healthy good size fruit late January. I am still harvesting almost every three weeks.It just grows and grows and gives lots of fruit. I give it good watering and lot of compost from time to time. I have left a fruit on each plant for seeds which will be handy come July.

- Chandra Akhil


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This planting guide is a general reference intended for home gardeners. We recommend that you take into account your local conditions in making planting decisions. Gardenate is not a farming or commercial advisory service. For specific advice, please contact your local plant suppliers, gardening groups, or agricultural department. The information on this site is presented in good faith, but we take no responsibility as to the accuracy of the information provided.

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