An in-depth guide to growing eggplants. Includes feeding, planting and harvesting advice, sun requirements and more!
Soil
What soil is good for Eggplant?
Warm, well draining soil with plenty of compost mixed in.
Position
How much sun does Eggplant need?
Full sun.
Frost Tolerant
Is Eggplant frost tolerant?
No
Spacing
How much space does Eggplant need?
Minimum 40-50cm apart, depending on the variety.
Planting
When should I plant Eggplant?
Eggplants are a warm season crop. They require night time temperatures above 21°C (70°F) and daytime temperatures above 25°C (77°F) to grow well.
Eggplants are generally planted in spring once the soil has warmed and the risk of frost has passed.
When transplanting seedlings, plant out in the early morning or evening and/or on an overcast day. Avoid planting at peak sun times or on windy days, this will allow your plants to settle in comfortably and protect them from windburn and sunburn.
Eggplants require a long growing season so it's best to sow seeds indoors in late winter so that they are ready to transplant in spring.
Feeding
What do I feed Eggplant?
Feed regularly with an organic fertiliser throughout the season. You can also top-dress the soil with new compost throughout the season for an additional boost. Mulch the soil around the plant well, making sure you leave a gap of a few centimeters around to base to avoid stem rot.
Harvesting
When can I harvest Eggplant?
Harvest when Eggplant skins are glossy and give a little when pressed. They are best enjoyed when the seeds inside are still white and immature.
Pests
What pests does Eggplant get?
Aphids, Slug, Snail, Mites, Potato Beetle, Cutworm, Flea Beetle, Hornworm, Stinkbugs, 28 Spotted Ladybug
Diseases
What diseases does Eggplant get?
Mosaic Virus, Cercospora Leaf Spot, Early Blight, Phomopsis Fruit Rot, Powdery Mildew, Verticillium Wilt, Phytophthora Blight, Colletotrichum Fruit Rot
Notes
Is there anything else I need to know about Eggplant?
Water regularly.
Stake plants if they become too heavy with fruit.
Eggplants are perennial plants that will overwinter if protected from frosts.