Field guide
How to grow eggplant: planting, care, and harvest guide
Eggplant typically reaches first harvest in 65–85 days. This guide covers when to plant by USDA zone, common pests, harvest cues, and companion plants where relevant.
Open plannerWhen to plant eggplant by USDA zone group
- USDA Zones 1–4 — June
- USDA Zones 5–6 — May to June
- USDA Zones 7–8 — April to May
- USDA Zones 9–10 — March to April
- USDA Zones 11–13 — February to March
Companion plants
Good companions: beans, Pepper (Sweet/Bell), Spinach
Avoid planting with: Florence Fennel
Harvest
When to pick
- Skin is glossy and firm
- Slightly give when pressed — springs back
- Seeds inside are still white/light (not brown)
- Dull skin means overripe
How: Cut stem with pruners, leaving 1 inch of stem. Don't pull. Harvest regularly to encourage continued production.
Storage: Use within a few days for best quality. Store at room temp — refrigeration causes chilling injury and off-flavors. If you must refrigerate, use within 3-4 days.
Common pests and problems
Flea Beetles
Signs: Many tiny round holes in leaves ("shotgun" damage), small jumping black beetles
Control: Row covers on transplants for first 2-3 weeks. Kaolin clay spray. Neem oil. Eggplant is a flea beetle magnet — can be used as a trap crop for nearby peppers/tomatoes.
Colorado Potato Beetle
Signs: Striped beetles, orange larvae, defoliation
Control: Hand-pick. Bt for larvae. Rotate nightshade family crops.
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