1. Soil Preperation For Eggplant:

Eggplant prefer a well drained, sunny and sheltered location for the best results. A cloche is often necessary in cool climates and should be placed over the soil two weeks prior to planting. Alternatively, Eggplant may be grown successfully in 9 inch pots or in grow bags - three plants per bag.

2. Sowing & Planting Eggplant:

Raise the eggplant seedlings in a propogator under glass so that the temperature remains a constant 60-70 days F. Sow two seeds into each cell and cull the weakest of the two seedlings. Harden the seedlings off before transplanting them outdoors.

3. Looking After The Eggplant:

Remove the growing points of the plants once they have reached a height of 12 inches. When five (5) fruits have formed, remove the lateral shoots. Mist the plants regularly to aid in fruit setting. Water the plants regularly and add a potassium rich fertilizer with each watering when the eggplant fruits begin to swell.

4. Harvesting Eggplant:

Harvest the eggplant when each fruit reaches a satisfactory size (about 5-6 inches for most varieties), but before the eggplant themselves lose their glossiness. Dull looking eggplant are typically over-ripe and will be bitter to the taste.

5. Storing Eggplant:

Eggplant can be kept in a plastic bag in your refrigirator for up to 2 weeks and can be frozen for short periods. Although it is rarely practiced, Eggplant may also be canned.
 

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