Eggplant
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How to grow: Eggplant
Pest management: Eggplant cultural tips, pests, and diseases
The Basics
When to plant
- Transplant: May–June
- For best results, wait until daytime temperatures are regularly over 75°F
- Start in pots for transplants: February–April; ready to transplant in 8 weeks
Harvest window: August–October, two to three months after transplanting, depending on variety.
Care overview
- Eggplants require warm to hot weather throughout the season for good production. Hot caps or row covers can be used to elevate temperatures. Planting in a container will also help in absorbing heat.
- Hand-pollinate by shaking the flowers to improve the fruit set.
- Stake plants to prevent branches from breaking due to fruit production and to keep the fruit off the soil.
- Harvest when the flesh is glossy and gives slightly under thumb pressure. Use a pruning shears or knife to clip the stem.
- Don't leave mature fruit on the plants because it will suppress new fruit production.
Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*
| Kauai White | Creamy, sweet, smooth |
| Pandora Striped Rose | Creamy, nutty, spicy |
| Green Giant Early | Sweet, smooth |
| Patio Mohican Hybrid | Fruity, sweet |
| Dusky | Meaty, sweet |
| Violetta Lunga | Meaty, creamy |
| Florida High Bush | Nutty, mild |
Other recommended varieties: Black Beauty, Casper, Ichiban, Neon, Violette di Firenze
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.