Eggplants: when to plant them in the garden?

Eggplants are the star vegetable of Mediterranean cuisine. Like its cousins, tomatoes and peppers, eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a vegetable that grows in sunny climates. It grows in the warm season when the soil warms up, so pay attention to soil and air temperatures when growing it in the garden.

There are several varieties of different sizes, shapes and colors. The most famous variety in Europe is the dark purple or black eggplant (Barbatane variety) but there are many others. Here are some explanations on how and when to plant eggplant in the garden.

When to plant eggplant in the garden?

You can plant eggplants from seedlings in the spring months. If you want to start growing indoors, sow the seeds in trays or pots 6 to 8 weeks before the last expected frost. You can also plant them in a greenhouse. Allow about 3 weeks for germination.

Seeds germinate quickly at temperatures between 21 and 32 °C. Be careful not to put the transplanted plants in the garden before the last spring frost. To prevent seedling damping off, read this article.

You can also buy nursery transplants 6 to 8 weeks before planting. Then choose good quality seedlings, do not take young plants already in bloom for example.

How to plant eggplant?

Once mild temperatures have been established, i.e. the air temperature should be above 12° on a fairly constant basis, you can proceed with transplanting the plants to the garden or sowing them. Start the seeds in shallow soil (a few centimeters). Space the seedlings well, allow about 50 cm between them.

Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil, which is essential for growing eggplants. A raised garden area or a container can be a good place as the soil will warm up more quickly. The soil should be rich and well drained. The plants should also have regular moisture.

Maintaining the plants

Ensure regular watering and mulch the plants to avoid drying out. To maintain the plant, prune the main stem beyond the second flower, between June and September. Eggplants are self-pollinating, usually by wind. Insect pollinators can also contribute to the process.

It is possible to propagate the eggplant by cuttings. This is a simple method and reduces the time needed to grow from seed. The best time to take cuttings is in late summer. You can then transpalm to the garden the following spring.

Harvesting eggplants

Eggplants are generally harvested in mid to late summer, depending on the variety. The vegetable tastes best when harvested fairly young, so check the plants often to see if the eggplants are starting to ripen. Plants take about 65 to 80 days to mature, while seeds take 100 to 120 days.

Pick eggplants with smooth, shiny, soft skin. Cut off the stem with a knife. Eggplant can be eaten fresh and raw, or baked and roasted. It can be stored in the refrigerator, uncut and unwashed, for about a week.