Eggplants, often known as aubergines, are a scrumptious and nutritious vegetable that may be simply grown in a backyard or in containers. Right here’s learn how to plant, develop, and harvest eggplants
Planting
- Select a sunny spot in your backyard with well-draining soil. Eggplants want a pH vary of 5.5 to six.8.
- Plant eggplant seeds indoors, 8-10 weeks earlier than the final frost. As soon as the seedlings are about 4 inches tall, transplant them to your backyard or container.
- House the eggplants about 18-24 inches aside in rows which might be 2-3 toes aside.
- Water the soil nicely after planting.
Rising
- Water the eggplant often, conserving the soil moist however not waterlogged. Eggplants are drought-tolerant, however constant watering will promote wholesome progress and a extra plentiful harvest.
- Fertilize the crops with a balanced fertilizer each 4-6 weeks, beginning about 3-4 weeks after planting.
- Mulch across the base of the crops to assist retain moisture and forestall weeds.
- As soon as the crops have grown to about 6 inches in peak, skinny out the weakest seedlings in order that just one plant per spot stays.
- Stake the crops in the event that they turn into top-heavy or to forestall them from falling over.
Harvesting
- Eggplants will be harvested when they’re agency, shiny, and have reached their full dimension. The superb dimension for harvesting is round 6-8 inches lengthy.
- Use a pointy knife or pruning shears to chop the eggplant from the stem, being cautious to not harm the plant.
- Put on gloves when harvesting, because the crops can have prickly stems and leaves.
- Harvest the eggplants when they’re nonetheless younger and tender, as older eggplants can turn into powerful and bitter.
Rising eggplants is a rewarding and fulfilling expertise. Bear in mind to water often, fertilize, and stake the crops as wanted. With the following tips in thoughts, you’ll be nicely in your method to rising wholesome and scrumptious eggplants in your backyard or container.