60 seeds
Matures in 70 days
Companion planting: Artichokes, broad beans, beans, radishes,
Poor companion: Potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, onion family,
Please note that some parts of the leaves and flowers are toxic if ingested.
Eggplant grows well in pots and is self-pollinating without the help of insects.
Generally considered a vegetable, eggplant is actually classified as a berry.
This plant produces fruits in the shape of a dark purple cucumber with sweet and firm flesh. It is a variety with good yield in a northern climate, typically producing more than 4 vegetables of 9’’ per plant.
It is advisable to start your eggplant seeds indoors, 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost in pots at ¼’’ deep in the soil. Maintain the room temperature around 25°C (80°F). Keep the soil moist without over-soaking during the germination period. About 3 weeks after the last spring frost, plant the seedlings in well-draining soil and full sun exposure, leaving 16’’ between each plant.
Eggplant enjoys warm summers, so you can apply black plastic or blankets around the base of your plants to retain heat. Cover your plants if temperatures threaten to drop below 10°C (55°F).
When the skin of the eggplant starts to shine, it is almost ripe. To test its maturity, gently press on the skin: if the flesh remains indented, it is ready to be picked. Overripe eggplants can become tough and bitter, so it is preferable to consume them when they are about half their adult size. It should be consumed quickly as it does not store well for an extended period.