Eggplant (Aubergine)

Solanum melongena or Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are a popular vegetable known for their rich flavor and meaty texture. Eggplants produce glossy, firm fruits with a rich flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Ideal for grilling, roasting, baking, and frying. Perfect for dishes like ratatouille, eggplant parmesan, and baba ganoush.
They come in various shapes and colors, with the most common being elongated and deep purple.
Fruits typically range from 15-30 cm in length, depending on the variety.
Eggplant plants are bushy and can grow up to 60-90 cm in height. They require staking or caging to support the weight of the fruits.
Harvest approximately 70-85 days from transplanting.
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost date. Maintain a temperature of 24-27°C for optimal germination.
Transplant seedlings into the garden when they have at least two true leaves and the soil temperature is consistently above 21°C. Space plants 60-90 cm apart in rows 90-120 cm apart.
Eggplants are self-pollinating, but you can encourage better fruit set by gently shaking the plants to distribute pollen.
Eggplants (Aubergine) are ready to harvest when they reach their mature size and the skin is glossy and firm to the touch.