The harvesting season for Solanum melongena (eggplant) typically begins in July and ends in October.
eggplant
Solanum melongena
Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a species of nightshade plant traditionally grown for its edible fruit. It's a species of flowering plant in the nightshade family Solanaceae, widely cultivated for its edible fruit, the eggplant, known in some countries as aubergine or brinjal. They are typically dark purple and oblong in shape, though there are also white, yellow, orange and green varieties. Eggplants are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber and require minimal care when planted outdoors. They take about 3 months to become ripe and ready to harvest.
Cycle:
Herbaceous Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Seed Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
9 - 12
Flowers:
Violet Flowers In Spring
Sun:
full sun
Fruits:
Fruits Ready In
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
Low
Maintenance:
Moderate
Drought Tolerant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Indoors:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Eggplant plants need to be watered frequently, about once per week. They prefer to remain evenly moist but not soggy, so water when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil starts to become dry. Water the plants at soil level and be sure to water them deeply, allowing the water to soak down to the roots. If temperatures are extremely high, you may need to water more often. In this case, test the soil with your finger to gauge moisture and water when the top inch of soil starts to become dry.
sunlight
How much sunlight goes to eggplant will depend on its growing conditions and location, but 6 or more hours per day is generally recommended. Eggplant prefers full sun, meaning it needs direct light for a good portion of the day, preferably early morning or mid-afternoon sun when temperatures are cooler. It also likes high levels of light and will produce more fruit when exposed to the sun for longer durations. It's important to make sure that the plant is shielded from hot afternoon sunlight which can be too intense for it.
pruning
Eggplant (Solanum melongena) should be pruned at the end of the winter, just before the spring growing season. Prune the plant back to the main stem, removing any dead leaves and stems that may have accumulated over the winter. Prune the plant back to an acceptable height, as this will encourage new growth and keep the plant healthy. In general, remove no more than 1/3 of the plant's foliage at once, as it may be weakened by excessive pruning.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit
Starts Flowering
Eggplant typically starts flowering in June or July.
Harvest Fruit
The harvesting season for Solanum melongena (eggplant) typically begins in July and ends in October.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Are eggplant and aubergines the same plant?
Yes, Eggplant and Aubergines are the same plant. They are both members of the Solanum melongena family, native to India and now cultivated worldwide. The two different names are primarily a result of different regional English dialects and the French name used in other parts of the world. Eggplants can also be known as brinjals in some parts of the world. Regardless of the name, they are the same plant.
Do aubergines contain fiber?
Yes, aubergines (eggplants) contain a good amount of fibre. 100 grams of aubergine provides 2.6 grams of fibre, which is 10% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA). Fiber is an important part of any healthy diet as it helps with digestion, keeps you full longer, lowers cholesterol, and even helps to regulate blood sugar levels and may reduce the risk of some diseases.
Do aubergines need a lot of space to grow?
Yes, like many other vegetables, aubergines need plenty of space to grow. They should be planted at least 18-24 inches apart from each other to allow enough room for them to expand. Additionally, they need enough space for proper airflow to ensure that the plants remain healthy and free of disease. Growers may wish to grow more than one aubergine plant in one area, but it’s important to space them out properly for best results.
Can we eat aubergines leaves?
Yes, aubergine leaves are edible and can be eaten. The leaves are high in antioxidants, which can protect cells in the body from damage. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help keep the digestive system healthy. They should be cooked before being eaten, as when eaten raw they can cause stomach irritation. When cooked, the leaves can be added to salads, soups, pasta dishes and stir-fries for extra flavor and texture.
Is crop rotation necessary for aubergines plants cultivated?
Yes, crop rotation is necessary for aubergines plants cultivated. This is because rotating crops in the same soil helps reduce soil-borne disease, reduce weed growth, conserve soil nutrients, and improve soil structure. In addition, rotating aubergines with other crops prevents the build-up of diseases and pests in the soil, as they will not be able to survive over the long term on just one crop. Finally, when aubergines are rotated with other crops it allows the soil to rest and recharge, preserving soil fertility and improving crop yields in the long run.
Can aubergine plant flowers be edible?
The short answer is yes. Depending on the variety of aubergine, the flower can be edible. It is typically a light purple or white color and should be picked when it is young and unopened. The flower petals can be cooked in a variety of dishes or eaten raw. The flavor is somewhat bitter and sweet, but the texture is similar to a squash flower. When selecting edible flowers, always make sure they are not sprayed with any chemicals or pesticides.
Can you grow aubergines indoors all around the year?
No, it is not possible to grow aubergines indoors all around the year. Aubergines, also known as eggplants, are warm-weather crops and require temperatures of at least 70°F (21°C) for successful growth. Unless you can create a consistently warm environment indoors that is also well-lit, aubergines will not thrive. In colder climates, a greenhouse may be the best place for successful eggplant growing.
