EGGPLANT

~ By Betty G. ~

Eggplants, peppers and tomatoes are all members of the nightshade family and each needs warm rich soil as well as a long growing season to thrive and produce a good crop.

Eggplants are particularly tricky to grow especially if started from seeds. The seeds must be sown indoors at least 8 weeks before the plants are set out and as mentioned above, they require plenty of sunshine and a moist warm soil in order to flourish. For this reason, it may be best to purchase plants from your local garden center. Even then plants sold in individual pots tend to fare much better than those in 4 or 6 packs.

It is vital to keep young seedlings indoors until the temperatures reach at least 70 degrees during the day and no less than 50 degrees at night. It is also important to harden off young plants by gradually exposing them to the outdoors.

Most eggplants do require 100 to 120 days to mature from seed, so if you happen to live in an area where summer arrives late, you might try an early fruit bearing type or think about using young, established plants.

Although there are many different varieties of eggplant, the most common type is known as the Globe or Western eggplant which is readily found in local grocery stores. I love the globe variety and I love to use it when making eggplant parmesan. It is also delicious when grilled on the barbeque or when added to spaghetti sauces.

Another well-known variety is the Japanese or Asian Eggplant which is long, and slender and great either baked or grilled. For the past 2 years, I have had very good luck with growing eggplant. Of course, I feel I have a head start since I live in Southern California where the winters are mild and spring comes early. I start by using a good quality potting mix. To this I sprinkle in a bit of humus as well as a handful of 5-10-5 fertilizer. After the soil is well-moistened, I carefully transplant each seedling in a separate pot and place each pot on the south end of the patio where the sun shines for most of the day.

Of course, the same procedure applies when placing them in the garden. Just remember these 2 added tips. Do not plant your eggplant in soil where you have grown potatoes, tomatoes or peppers in the past and be sure to do your planting on an overcast day to prevent both transplant shock and leaf wilt.

To help your eggplants flourish, keep the ground well-water and weed free. Black plastic mulch works wonders as it adds warmth, preserves moisture and prevents weeds all at the same time.

When blossoms set and fruit begins to form, for a better crop, it is best to pinch off any extra blossoms. About 80 days after the seedlings are planted in the garden, the fruits should reach maturity. Of course, the size and color largely depend on the variety one chooses. Most, however reach about 6 inches in length and about 5 inches in diameter and most will be a glossy, dark purple. This means it is ready to pick. Remember when harvesting, do not try to pull off the fruit. Use a sharp knife to cut the fruit from the stem.

In closing, I just want to say that you try your hand at growing one of my favorite vegetables.

         

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