Basics

Ease of Growing
Temperamental
Grown as
Annual
Days to Maturity
75 (Spring/Summer)
Growing Habit
Bush
Hardiness
Tender

Eggplant is a tropical plant and won't grow if it isn't warm and sunny.

Crops
Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season
Long
Cultivar Type
-
Growing Conditions
Warm, Hot

Eggplant needs a warm, sunny spot, sheltered from cold winds.

Outdoor Growing Temp
65°F - 95°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp
60°F

Eggplants is a tropical plant and needs warm soil for germination, a minimum of 60 degrees F.

Start Indoors
Yes
Start Outdoors
Yes
Light
Water
Moderate

The plants are fairly drought tolerant, but need moist soil for maximum fruit production.

Feeder
Moderate

They like nitrogen and moderate amounts of phosphorus and potassium.

Suitability
Drought tolerant, High heat, Needs lots of space
Small Gardens?
No
Containers?
Yes

The smaller varieties do quite well in containers (these should be least 12 inches deep). The ideal container for growing eggplant is 3 to 5 gallons in size. Fill the container with a mixture of potting soil and compost and make sure to give your eggplants lots of water and fertilizer. It can be helpful to use a tomato cage, as eggplants can get really large. Container growing works quite well for eggplant because you can move them inside if cold weather or frost threatens.

Attracts beneficial insects?
No
Color
Purple
Fruit Size
8.0 - 10.0"
Plant Height
22.0 - 38.0"
Plant Diameter
12.0 - 18.0"
Hardiness Zone
5-11
Disease Resistance
Taste Profile

Classic mild flavor, good grilled, baked, mashed. Dark purple fruits can be sliced like a cucumber.

Rotation Group
Fruits: Solanaceae + Cucurbits