Eggplant (Aubergines)

Eggplants, or aubergines, grow best in soil temperatures around 75°F. Like tomatoes, they’re very easy to grow.

For early planting, warm the soil with black plastic mulch.

• Eggplants can reach 3 feet tall, featuring large leaves and purple or white flowers.

• In northern regions with shorter growing seasons, start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost and select early-ripening varieties.

• Space plants 18-24 inches apart and ensure they receive 8-10 hours of sunlight daily.

• Support heavy fruits using cages or stakes to prevent them from breaking.

• Be mindful of flea beetles, which can threaten plants; protect with row covers or repellents.

• Harvest eggplants when the skin is shiny; dull skin may indicate bitterness.

• Eggplants are versatile in cooking, suitable for dishes like Eggplant Parmesan and Baba Ghanoush.