Eggplants

Eggplants

·        Eggplants want much the same soil conditions as tomatoes, but they are also a little more sensitive, being generally susceptible to wilts, and fond of near-tropical weather.

·        Growing in pots can help alleviate or lessen some of these concerns.

·        Warming the soil with plastic ground covers, and situating the plantings near south-facing walls can also help keep things warm enough.

·        Transplant to pots when seedlings reach 2 inches high, and harden off and plant outside when the soil is warm and danger of frost has passed.

·        Space plants 18 inches apart.

·        Tomato fertilizer and plenty of water will help the plants.

·        Expect about 4 eggplants per plant.

·        Full Sun is defined as exposure to more than 6 hours of continuous, direct sun per day.

·        The key to watering is water deeply and less frequently. When watering, water well, to provide enough water to thoroughly saturate the root ball.

·        With in-ground plants, this means thoroughly soaking the soil until water has penetrated to a depth of 6 to 7 inches (1' being better).

·        Try to water plants early in the day or later in the afternoon to conserve water and cut down on plant stress. Do water early enough so that water has had a chance to dry from plant leaves prior to night fall. This is paramount if you have had fungus problems.

·        Don't wait to water until plants wilt. Although some plants will recover from this, all plants will die if they wilt too much (when they reach the permanent wilting point).

·        Consider water conservation methods such as drip irrigation, mulching, and xeriscaping. Drip systems which slowly drip moisture directly on the root system can be purchased at your local home and garden center. Mulches can significantly cool the root zone and conserve moisture.

·        Consider adding water-saving gels to the root zone which will hold a reserve of water for the plant. These can make a world of difference especially under stressful conditions. Be certain to follow label directions for their use.

·        Normal watering means that soil should be kept evenly moist and watered regularly, as conditions require. Most plants like 1 inch of water a week during the growing season, but take care not to over water.

·        The first two years after a plant is installed, regular watering is important for establishment. The first year is critical. It is better to water once a week and water deeply, than to water frequently for a few minutes.

·        Eggplant is somewhat drought tolerant and should not be overly watered as this may cause the plant to develop root rot.

·        Mulching can help to keep the plant moist and watering can be increased once flowering has occurred.

·        Since Eggplant is a heavy feeder, you may need to provide it with extra fertilizer to produce a good crop.

 Louisiana Long Green Eggplant

·        Louisiana Long Green Eggplants are 8 to 10 inches long, light green, banana shaped and grow on tall, vigorous plants.

·        They can weigh about 6 ounces a piece and have a sweet, nutty flavor with no bitterness.

·        Days To Harvest: 100

·        Outstanding Features: High yielding plants.

·        Heirloom plant from Louisiana.

·        Plant in full sun.

·        Transplant after the danger of frost has passed when the soil is thoroughly warm.

·        Eggplants are heavy feeders. Fertilize with 2-3 tablespoons of ammonium nitrate per 10 feet of row after the first harvest and every 3-4 weeks after that.

·        Spacing: Plant 24″ apart in 40″ rows.

·        Height: Grows 24″ to 36″ tall.

Long Purple Eggplant

                                                                    

·        'Early Long Purple' is an heirloom variety of eggplant.

·        The fruits measure 9 inches long and 2 inches in diameter, and have a long club shape which is good for slicing and frying.

·        Extremely hardy, and can be grown as far north as southern Canada.

·        Large purple flowers.

Black Beauty Eggplant

·        Solanum melongena.

·        The Black Beauty eggplant grows deep purple fruits up to 6 inches long.

·        The flesh is smooth and pale yellow.

·        Plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.

·        85% Germination rate

·        80 days from plant until harvest

·        Black Beauty eggplants do well in the heat and humidity.

·        Place seeds or transplants in a rich, well-drained soil.

·        Eggplants will thrive when the soil is enriched with manure or compost.

·        Plants are easily damaged by wind and frost.

·        Keep Black Beauty eggplants well watered and use grass clippings or straw around base of plant.

·        Cut fruits from plant when they reach full color.

·        Scoop out Black Beauty seeds and place in bowl of water for several days to separate seeds from pulp. Dry seeds and store.