Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are versatile and delicious vegetables that have found their place in American gardens and cuisine. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about growing eggplants in your own backyard or container garden.
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A Brief History of Eggplants in the USA
Eggplants were introduced to the United States by Thomas Jefferson in 1806, after receiving one from a friend in France. Since then, they have become increasingly popular in American cuisine, especially in Southern and Northeastern states where the climate is more suitable for growing an eggplant.
While eggplants can be grown throughout the US, they are particularly popular in:
- Northeast: New Jersey, known as the “Garden State,” is famous for its eggplants.
- Southeast: Florida and Georgia have ideal growing conditions.
- Southwest: California’s climate is perfect for eggplant cultivation.
Eggplant Varieties for Your Garden
Table of popular eggplant varieties:
| Variety | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Black Beauty | Classic oval, dark purple | In-ground gardens |
| Patio Baby | Compact, small fruits | Containers |
| Ichiban | Long, slender, Japanese type | Grilling |
| Rosa Bianca | Round, lavender and white | Gourmet dishes |
| Hansel | Slim, finger-sized fruits | Container or in-ground |
| Ghostbuster | White, oval fruits | Unique color addition |
| Little Fingers | Clusters of small, slender fruits | Quick harvests |
How to Grow Eggplants
Eggplants (Solanum melongena) are warm-season vegetables that thrive in conditions similar to tomatoes and peppers. They require full sun exposure of 6 to 8 hours daily and soil temperatures between 70°F and 85°F for optimal growth.
Soil Preparation and Planting
Prepare well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. Mix in 1 inch of well-rotted manure or compost about a week before planting. For fertilizer, apply 2-3 pounds of 5-10-5 per 100 square feet or 1¼ pounds per 10 feet of row.
Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date, or purchase 6- to 8-week-old transplants. Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in seed trays, keeping soil moist and warm (around 75°F). Transplant eggplants seedlings when they have 3-4 true leaves, spacing them 18-24 inches apart in rows 30-36 inches apart.
Growing Methods
For in-ground planting, use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. For container growing, use a dark-colored 5-gallon pot with good drainage and high-quality potting mix. Raised beds are ideal as they warm quickly in spring.
Care and Maintenance
Water consistently to maintain even soil moisture, but avoid waterlogging. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
For bigger fruits, restrict to five or six per plant, pinching off extra flowers. Pinch out terminal growing points for bushier plants. Protect plants from temperatures below 55°F and above 95°F to ensure proper fruiting.
Trellising
Set 24-inch-high stakes or cages 1 to 2 inches from each plant immediately after planting for support. Eggplant trellising can help save space and improve air circulation. Use sturdy stakes or a trellis system, and gently tie the main stem to the support as it grows.
Pest and Disease Management
Common pests include flea beetles, Colorado potato beetles, and tomato hornworms. Use row covers, organic insecticides, or handpick pests as needed. To prevent diseases like blight and powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and maintain proper soil fertility.
Companion Planting
Grow eggplants alongside herbs like basil or marigolds to deter pests naturally.
Harvesting and Storage
Harvest eggplants when they are young, firm, and glossy, typically 65 to 80 days after transplanting. Cut the stem with pruning shears rather than pulling the fruit. Wear gloves when harvesting, as the calyx can be prickly.
Store harvested eggplants in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in humid conditions no lower than 50°F for up to two weeks. Do not wash until ready to use. To prevent discoloration after cutting, use a marinade with salt, vinegar, or lemon juice.
Troubleshooting
If flowers form but fall off, or if fruit doesn’t develop or grow, temperatures may be too cold. Ensure daytime temperatures are 80° to 90°F and nighttime temperatures don’t fall below 60° to 65°F. Strangely-shaped eggplants often result from inconsistent watering or low moisture.
Eggplant in American Cuisine
Eggplants are featured in many American dishes, such as eggplant parmesan, grilled eggplant, ratatouille and baba ganoush. Their ability to absorb flavors makes them a versatile ingredient.
Eggplants pair well with ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, olive oil and cheese. These combinations enhance the natural flavors and are popular in American cuisine.
By following this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to cultivate robust and flavorful eggplants in your garden. Whether you’re nurturing an egg plant garden in your backyard or experimenting with container gardening on your patio, these versatile vegetables will not only enhance your homegrown produce but also add a delightful touch to your culinary creations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big do eggplant plants get?
Eggplant plants typically grow to a height of 3 to 4 feet tall, though some varieties can reach up to 4 to 5 feet in height. The size can vary depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. Dwarf or miniature varieties grown in containers may only reach about 2 feet tall. It’s important to provide support, such as stakes or cages, as the plants can become heavy when laden with fruit.
How many eggplants can I grow in a container?
For container growing, you can typically grow one eggplant per 5-gallon (or larger) pot. Smaller dwarf or miniature varieties that grow up to 2 feet tall can be planted in a 2-gallon pot. It’s important to use a container that provides enough space for the plant’s root system and to ensure proper drainage. Remember to place the container in full sun and use high-quality potting mix for best results.
Is eggplant a slow growing plant?
Eggplants are generally not considered slow-growing plants, but their growth rate can vary depending on conditions. They grow fastest when temperatures are between 70° and 85°F.
How to get eggplant to bloom?
Ensure your eggplant blooms by providing the right conditions: full sun, warm temperatures, and sufficient water. Transplants might take a few weeks to start flowering. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they promote leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
How many times can you harvest from one eggplant?
Eggplants can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season. Typically, you can expect to harvest from one eggplant plant several times, as long as the plant remains healthy and continues to produce flowers and fruits. It’s important to pick the fruits when they are young and glossy to encourage further production. Regular harvesting can lead to a more prolific yield, with the potential for multiple harvests over the course of the season.