When to Plant Eggplant

Start eggplant seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before setting seedlings in the garden. Transplant eggplant seedlings to the garden 2 to 3 weeks after the last frost. Eggplant seeds germinate in about 10 days.

Eggplants grow best in average temperatures between 70° and 85°F (21-29°C). Grow long-season varieties in regions with hot summers. Grow early maturing varieties in all regions but especially where summers are short. All eggplants are harmed by extended temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Eggplant seeds can be direct sown in the garden only in regions with very long warm summers. Prewarm the soil with plastic sheeting ahead of setting out transplants or direct sowing seeds.

Eggplant planting

Plant eggplant in average loam rich in organic matter. Grow eggplants in full sun.

Eggplants grow best in a soil pH that ranges between 5.5 and 6.8. Always keep the soil evenly moist from flowering through harvest. Eggplant is a heavy feeder; it needs a moderate amount of nitrogen and potassium and high amounts of phosphorus.

Eggplant harvest

Eggplant is ready for harvest 60 to 70 days after transplanting. Eggplants can be picked as soon as they are useable size. A ripe eggplant will have a glossy skin. An eggplant with dull skin is past its prime and will be bitter flavored.

Eggplant seedlings ready for transplanting

Eggplant seedling planting dates

(These dates are for the Northern Hemisphere)

Average date of the last frost	Planting dates
Jan. 30	Feb. 1-Mar. 1
Feb. 8	Feb. 10-Mar. 15
Feb. 18	Feb. 20-Apr. 1
Feb. 28	Mar. 10-Apr. 15
Mar. 10	Mar. 15-Apr. 15
Mar. 20	Apr. 1-May 1
Mar. 30	Apr. 15-May 15
Apr. 10	May 1-June 1
Apr. 20	May 10-June 1
Apr. 30	May 15-June 10
May 10	May 20-June 15
May 20	June 1-15
May 30
June 10