Eggplants grow from seeds that are typically started indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last frost date. The seeds are sown in sterile seed-starting mix, lightly covered, and kept warm (ideally around 75°F or 24°C) to encourage germination, which takes about 7 to 14 days
. Seedlings are grown under bright light to prevent them from becoming leggy, and are transplanted to larger pots once they have two sets of leaves
. Once seedlings are hardened off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions, they are planted outdoors or in a greenhouse after the danger of frost has passed, usually when soil temperatures are above 50°F (10°C)
. Eggplants require full sun, warm temperatures (70° to 85°F or 21° to 30°C), and fertile, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter like compost
. Plants should be spaced about 24 to 36 inches apart to allow room for growth and staked to support the branches as they develop
. During growth, eggplants need consistent moisture without sogginess, regular feeding with balanced fertilizer or organic manures, and mulching to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
. Plants typically grow several feet tall with fruit developing on the branches. To promote even fruit development, gardeners may prune to limit the number of shoots and fruit sets
. Eggplants are harvested when the fruits stop growing and their skin becomes glossy. The fruit is cut off with a small portion of the stem attached to avoid damage
. Overall, eggplants thrive in warm, sunny conditions with careful watering, feeding, and support throughout the growing season lasting about 70 to 90 days from transplanting to harvest
