BRINJAL/EGG PLANT SEEDS

**Eggplant (Solanum melongena):**

**1. Sowing Time:**
– Eggplants are typically grown as annuals and are best started from seeds indoors or in a greenhouse. Start the seeds 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date in your region. Transplant the seedlings outdoors once the weather has warmed up and there is no risk of frost. This is usually in the late spring or early summer.

**2. Soil Preparation:**
– Eggplants thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 6.5. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.

**3. Planting:**
– Transplant your eggplant seedlings into the garden when they are about 6-8 inches tall and have a strong root system. Space them about 18-24 inches apart in rows, and ensure they receive full sun.

**4. Care:**
– Eggplants require consistent moisture throughout the growing season. Water deeply, but be sure not to overwater, as they are susceptible to root rot.
– Mulching around the plants can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain even soil temperatures.
– Fertilize your eggplants with a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply a side dressing of fertilizer when they start to produce fruits.
– Pruning can help improve air circulation and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

**5. Diseases and Pests:**
– Common diseases that affect eggplants include:
– **Fungal diseases**: Such as powdery mildew, early blight, and verticillium wilt. Use appropriate fungicides if needed.
– **Bacterial wilt**: This is a bacterial disease that can be difficult to control. Avoid planting eggplants in areas with a history of bacterial wilt.
– Common pests include:
– **Aphids**: They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
– **Flea beetles**: Use row covers to protect young plants.
– **Colorado potato beetles**: Handpick them or use organic insecticides.
– **Whiteflies**: Insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control whiteflies.

**6. Fertilizers:**
– Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer when transplanting seedlings. Follow up with additional fertilizer when the plants start to produce fruits. Alternatively, use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure.

**7. Harvesting:**
– Eggplants are ready to harvest when they have reached their mature size and have a glossy appearance. Overripe eggplants can become bitter and develop a tough skin. The optimal size for most varieties is typically around 6-8 inches in length.
– Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the eggplants from the plant, leaving a short stem attached.
– Harvest regularly to encourage continuous fruit production throughout the growing season.

By following these steps, you can successfully grow and harvest eggplants. Keep an eye on your plants for any signs of diseases or pests, and address them promptly to ensure a healthy crop.

It is high yielding and has the vigor to make it through a long season under greenhouse conditions. Beautiful, glossy black fruits have excellent flavor. A very versatile variety, fruits become firm at a small size, allowing it to be harvested at half-pound baby size or as a quarter-pound mini eggplant. Spineless plant with green