Skip to main content
← All plants

Eggplant

Solanum melongena
Also known as: Aubergine, Brinjal, Guinea Squash, Melongene, Garden Egg

Eggplant is a vegetable in the Solanaceae family. It grows best in full sun with medium moisture, and is listed for USDA zones 2-13. Plants reach harvest about 40–98 days after planting and sit about 12 inches apart.

Varieties

69 from True Leaf Market, High Mowing & Seeds Now · sorted by days to maturity
  • Petch Siam40–50 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    40-50 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena ’Petch Siam’. Petch Siam Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. This well-known and productive Matti Gulla variety is easy to grow. Matti is an Indian village famous for this type of eggplant. The small (2 inches in diameter), round, green eggplants have a dark green stripe and are very popular in Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines. Try growing these in containers with support as you would tomatoes. Approximately 21,000 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Eclipse F142–58 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    50 days to maturity. Solanum melongena. Eclipse F1 Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, hybrid, Italian eggplant. Suitable for growing in greenhouses, garden plots, and raised beds. Sturdy 33-inch plants produce glossy teardrop-shaped fruit about 3 inches across. This Italian type is often included in Middle-Eastern cuisine. Well suited to commercial markets. ~6,500 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Fairy Tale Hybrid42–58 days

    AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual

    50 days. AAS Winner for 2005. New miniature eggplants are white with violet/purple stripes. The fruit are non-bitter, with a tender skin and few seeds. The elongated, oval eggplants can be picked when quite small at 1-2oz or left on the plant until double that weight and the flavor and tenderness remain. The petite plant reaches only 2 ½ ft tall and wide and adapts well to container gardening. Mountain Valley Seeds carried these Eggplant seeds in a variety of sizes including both retail and wholesale prices. Order online or stop by today!

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Hansel Hybrid47–63 days

    AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual

    Packet of 100 seeds. 55 days. AAS Winner for 2008. New, compact eggplant produces tender, non-bitter fruits that from true miniature sizes (2 to 3 inches in length), all the way to larger sizes (6 to 10 inches in length). The stunning, glossy, dark-purple fruit have few seeds and are borne in finger-like clusters. Compact and productive plants fit well into smaller garden spaces. Approx. 6,000 seeds/oz. An AAS Winner, Hansel Hybrid eggplant seeds are egg shaped and can grow to be anywhere between two and ten inches long. The non-GMO Hansel Hybrid reaches maturity in just fifty five days and is suitable for grow zones five to twelve. This variety does best in moist soil and full sun.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Millionaire Purple Hybrid47–63 days

    Container; Vegetable; Annual

    55 days. Japan long-type produces early, high quality fruit over 8 inches long with brilliant black skin and a purple calyx. The tender flesh is nearly seedless. This is a great replacement for Ichiban. An ideal variety for greenhouses, home gardens, and open field crops. The millionaire purple hybrid variety of eggplant is long and slender, growing to be up to eight inches long. The millionaire purple hybrid reaches maturity in just fifty five days and is suitable for grow zones five to twelve. This variety does best in moist soil and full sun. Approx. 6,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Galaxy of Stars48–66 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Galaxy of Stars Eggplant Seeds. 57 days to maturity. Solanum melongena. Open Pollinated, Annual. Galaxy of stars is a beauty at 3 to 4 inches long. These plump fruits are a rich purple with white striations all around. Approximately 6,500 seeds per ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Shooting Stars48–66 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    Shooting Stars Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. 57 days to maturity. Heirloom, Annual. This elegant delicately striped vivid purple eggplant would make a magnificent pendant. Approximately 6,500 seeds/ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Choryoku - Hybrid50–60 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    50-60 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena var. esculentum 'Choryoku'. Choryoku Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. This long Japanese eggplant has a bright, shiny, spring-green skin and matures to 12 inches. The plant is a vigorous grower and prolific producer of large, firm, sweet, and tasty fruits. Choryoku is appropriate for containers, home gardens, and field growing. The plant grows well in warm climates and is advantageous for companion planting with other vegetables. Approximately 6,250 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Gretel Hybrid50 days

    AAS Winner; Vegetable; Annual

    50 days. AAS Winner for 2009. These miniature eggplants are white with violet/purple stripes. The fruit are non-bitter, with tender skin and few seeds. The elongated, oval eggplants can be picked when quite small at 1-2 oz or left on the plant until double that weight while flavor and tenderness remain. The petite plant reaches only 2 1/2 ft tall and wide and adapts well to container gardening.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Money Maker - Hybrid50–60 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    50-60 days maturity after transplanting. Solanum melongena ’Money Maker’. Money Maker Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. Money Maker is one of the most popular eggplant varieties in Japan. The semi-upright plant produces many glossy, black, oval-shaped fruit with purple calyces. The fruit is supremely tender, grows up to 5 inches long, and weighs 3-4 ounces. The plant is very productive, has an early fruit set, and has high heat tolerance. Excellent for greenhouses, open fields, and home garden growing. Approximately 6,300 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Purple Thai Round50–55 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    50-55 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena. Purple Thai Round Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. This vigorous, prolific variety can adapt to many different growing conditions. The round fruit is bright, shiny, purple, and grows up to 2 inches in diameter, weighing up to 3 ounces. It is favored in the cuisines of India, Thailand, and Vietnam. This uniquely shaped eggplant variety is very popular in Srilanka. Try growing these on your deck in a pot with a cage, similar to tomatoes! Approximately 10,000 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Konasu51–69 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    60 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena ’Konasu’. Konasu Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. This tiny, bite-sized, rounded eggplant has shiny dark purple skin that looks almost onyx. The calyx is also a purplish-black, and beneath the tender skin is a white flesh. Konasu is suitable for open fields and home growing. The plant is upright, grows well in warm climates, and is a useful companion plant to many other vegetables. Approximately 6,250 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Kurume Long51–69 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    60 days to maturity after transplanting. Solanum melongena 'Kurume Long'. Kurume Long Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual. This popular open-pollinated Japanese variety has excellent fruit quality. Shiny, black fruits have a purple calyx and mature to 9-10 inches long with a mild, delicate flavor. Very vigorous and good for open-field growing and home gardens. The plant is upright and productive.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Little Finger51–69 days

    Early; Productive; Great for containers; 3-6” fruit

    Slender, petite eggplants fantastic for grilling. Dark purple skin is thin and tender. Flesh has a silky texture with few seeds and mildly sweet flavor needing very little cooking time. Harvest when fruit is young and glossy.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Shikou F151–69 days

    Asian type; Tender skin; 6-10” fruit

    Glossy, deep purple fruits on productive, semi-spineless plants with upright, open habit. Ten days earlier than Ping Tung Long, fruits have bright, white interior flesh with a purple calyx—making a striking contrast when sliced—and very few seeds inside. Plants are productive and highly ornamental, a beautiful addition to the garden. The first organic, hybrid, Asian type eggplant on the market, the semi-spineless plants are robust and prolific, producing tender-skinned fruits that do not get bitter and never need to be peeled. From Sakata Seeds. Unavailable in 2024

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Shoya Long - Hybrid51–69 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    60 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena ’Shoya Long’. Shoya Long Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. An early maturing hybrid with high yields and an upright plant habit. The fruit has deep purple skin and calyx. It matures to 14-16 inches long and weighs about half a pound. Good for greenhouses (spring harvest) and open field growing (summer harvest). Try growing these in containers with support. Approximately 6,625 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Violet Delite F151–69 days

    Exceptionally prolific; No bitterness; 8-12" fruit

    Super straight, radiant fruit with gorgeous, glossy skin and beautiful, pink coloration Somewhat spineless, upright plants abundantly produce tender fruit that lacks bitterness. Fruit is straight, long and highly uniform with a pinkish-purple glow that creates a lovely contrast to bright green calyxes. Plants are highly prolific—an improved Asian-type for both the home gardener and commercial grower. From our partners at Pan American Seed.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Black Shine - Hybrid55–75 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    65 days maturity after transplanting. Solanum melongena ’Black Shine’. Black Shine Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. This Japanese hybrid eggplant has long fruit with black skin and a purple calyx. The shiny fruits have tender, sweet, high-quality flesh and grow over 8 inches long, weighing over 8 oz. This extra early prolific producer is recommended for greenhouse, container, and open field growing. Black Shine is similar to the Millionaire variety, but the fruit is heavier and denser. ~ 6,250 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Japanese Pickling55–75 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Japanese Pickling Eggplant Seeds. 65 days to maturity. Heirloom, Annual. Can be grown in containers. Solanum melongena. These purple slender, slightly curved eggplants, are full of flavors as they are mild and sweet. About 6,500 seeds/ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Kamo55–75 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    65 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena 'Kamo'. Kamo Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. Kamo is a highly prized traditional kyo yasai or Kyoto vegetable from the Kamo area of Japan. It has been a delicacy in that region for hundreds of years. This unique fruit is round with a flat bottom, purple-black skin, purple calyx, and weighs up to 1/2 lb. Kamo is suitable for open fields and home growing. The plant grows well in warm climates and is a valuable companion plant for many other vegetables. Approximately 5,800 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Long Green Louisiana55–75 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    Solanum melongena. Produces excellent yields of 9" long/glossy light green eggplants - White flesh - Very delicious with nutty flavor and no bitterness - Excellent for Creole fish stew and other culinary creations Days to Maturity | 65 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Morden Midget (organic)55–75 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    65 Days to maturity. Solanum melongena. Organic Morden Midget Eggplant Vegetable Seeds. Non-GMO, annual, organic, open-pollinated, heirloom, italian eggplant. Suitable for growing in greenhouses, garden plots, raised beds, or containers. Also called Morden Mini Eggplant, this eggplant is ideal for those with shorter growing seasons as it reaches maturity in just over three months. The Morden Midget is the perfect choice for containers and pots or those looking to be as space-efficient as possible. It develops dark purple-black fruits. ~6,450 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Purple Comet F155–70 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Purple Comet F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 55 days to maturity. Strong upright plants produce big yields of long-fruited Asian type eggplant. ~ 6,500 Seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Purple Shine - Hybrid55–75 days

    Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    65 days to maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena ’Purple Shine’. Purple Shine Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. This is a popular Chinese type eggplant variety. Fruits are firm and have shiny purple skin. The eggplants average 9-11 inches in length and 1.5-2 inches in diameter. Plants are productive with high yields. This early producer is suggested for greenhouse, container, and open field growing. Approximately 6,250 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Thai Round55–60 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    55-60 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena ’Thai Round’. Thai Round Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. This disease-resistant Matti Gulla variety adapts well to many growing conditions. Matti is an Indian village famous for this type of eggplant. The productive plant produces small, round, green-skinned fruits with white stripes that grow up to 2 inches in diameter and up to 2 ounces in weight. Young Thai Round eggplants are excellent for pickling and adding to curries. Try growing these on your porch in a pot with a cage, just like tomatoes! Approximately 6,500 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • White Star F155–75 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    White Star F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 65 days to maturity. White Star F1 is a classic, white, teardrop-shape eggplant. Approx. 6,500 Seeds per ounce.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Odyssey F1 Hybrid56–58 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    (Solanum melongena) Eggplant, also known in europe as Aubergine. Bush gives you deep purple fruit with the classic pear shape.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Little Finger Purple58–78 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Solanum melongena (68 days) Little Fingers grow in clusters that almost look like hands. They grow in clusters of 3-5 purple, slim fruits. ~7,850 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Apple Green59–81 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    Apple Green Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. 70 days to maturity. Heirloom, Annual. Early. About 6,500 seeds/ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Bride F159–81 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Bride F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 70 days to maturity. Eggplant Bride F1 is a beautiful hybrid Asian eggplant known for its mild flavor and few seeds. About 6,500 Seeds / Oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Falling Stars F159–81 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Falling Stars F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 70 days to maturity. This eggplant produces tear-drop shaped fruits that are light purple with white streaks. Approx. 6,500 Seeds per ounce.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Fingers - Green59–81 days

    Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Fingers Green Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. 70 days to maturity. Open Pollinated, Annual. Can be grown in containers. The plant produces light green fruits that are thin and tender. About 6,500 seeds/ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Casper60–80 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    This rare white heirloom eggplant variety produces ivory-white skinned eggplant and is a very early producer of 5-6 inch long fruit - The flesh of this eggplant is snow white - It has a succulent mushroom-like flavor that is absolutely delicious! Days to Maturity | 70 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Diamond60–80 days

    Good short season variety; Highly productive; 6-8” fruit

    A standout as a very prolific, early producer; yields as well as hybrids in our trials. Slender, attractive, dark purple fruit hang in clusters for easy picking. Fruit has mild flavor with no bitterness and a fine, creamy texture. Great choice for eggplants in a short season or for those looking for a high-quality open-pollinated variety for commercial production.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Full Moon F160–75 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Full Moon F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 60 to 75 days to maturity. Full moon is a Black Beauty hybrid with a green calyx. ~ 6,500 Seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Green Envy F160–65 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Green Envy F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 60 to 65 days to maturity. The Green Envy Hybrid Eggplant is known for having the sweetest flesh of all eggplants with no hint of bitterness. Approx. 6,500 Seeds per ounce.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Michal F160–70 days

    Parthenocarpic; Greenhouse or field; 7.5” fruit

    This vigorous hybrid produces early and often, offering firm fruits with an excellent shelf life. Hardy, parthenocarpic plants are perfect for greenhouse production but also perform well in the field. Uniform, classically shaped fruits have good flavor and very few seeds. Dark black skin and firm flesh—great for eggplant parmesan. Bred by Genesis Seeds. Michal F1

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Piccolo F160–70 days

    Parthenocarpic; Greenhouse or field; 3-4” fruit

    Adorable miniature fruits are beautifully variegated with bright purple skin and delicate white stripes. Vigorous, parthenocarpic plants produce impressive yields over a long season. Slightly oval-shaped fruits are easy to slice and grill and are the perfect size for stuffing. Excellent shelf-life and a unique addition to market displays. From our partners at Genesis Seeds.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Ping Tung Long60–80 days

    Compact habit; Excellent for containers; 12-14” fruit

    Easy-to-grow, Asian eggplants are long and slender with tender, magenta skin. Productive plants yield up to 20 fruits each and are vigorous and stress tolerant. Slim fruits average 1-2” wide. No peeling required.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Snowy60–65 days

    Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Snowy Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. Uniform. 60 - 65 days to maturity. Heirloom, Annual. It can be grown in containers. Snowy is long ivory-white eggplants with a mild flavor with no bitterness. About 6,500 seeds per ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Snowy (Organic)60–65 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Organic Snowy Eggplant Seeds. 60 - 65 days to maturity. Can be grown in containers. Solanum melongena. Open Pollinated, Non-GMO, Annual. Approx. 6,500 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Rosa Bianca62–84 days

    Gourmet appeal; 4-6” fruit

    A lovely Sicilian variety with light pink fruit streaked with white and violet. Plump, rounded fruits have mild, creamy taste adored by chefs; no bitterness and few seeds. Does best in areas with warm nights like states located in the southeast and southwest. Can have lower yields in extreme northern regions like northern Vermont or Quebec.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Gaudi F164–86 days

    Spineless; Greenhouse or field; 7-8" fruit

    Long, bell-shaped fruit with gorgeous, dark purple skin on strong, upright plants with an open growth habit. Medium tall plants produce early and abundantly, and are covered in dark purple fruit with bright green, spineless calyxes. Fruit is firm and maintains deep coloration into maturity and well after harvest. An excellent and versatile variety perfect for fresh market sales, pre- packing and processing.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Italian Rosa Bianca64–86 days

    Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    75 days. The Italian Rosa Bianca variety of eggplant is large, round, and ideal for slicing. The Italian Rosa Bianca reaches maturity in seventy five days and is suitable for grow zones five to twelve. This variety does best in moist soil and full sun. An heirloom from Italy that is beautiful and delicious. This eggplant grows 4 to 6 inch, rosy-lavender and cream colored, teardrop shaped fruit that grow in good yields. The flavor is creamy and seldom bitter. Approx. 6,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Long Purple Italian64–86 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    Grow your own Long Purple Italian eggplants with these premium seeds. This classic variety produces club-shaped fruits measuring 10" long by 2" in diameter, with each plant yielding four or more deep purple eggplants. Ready to harvest in just 75 days, these seeds are perfect for gardeners seeking reliable, high-yielding plants. Start seeds indoors 10 weeks before your last frost date, then transplant into rows spaced 3 feet apart with 2 feet between plants. Ideal for fresh cooking, grilling, or preserving. Visit our complete Eggplant grow guide for detailed planting and care instructions to ensure a bountiful harvest. The Long Purple Italian eggplant is a time-honored garden staple prized for its consistent performance and abundant yields. This vigorous variety thrives in warm-season gardens, producing elongated, club-shaped fruits with glossy deep purple skin that reaches 10 inches in length. The tender flesh is ideal for traditional Italian dishes, stir-fries, and Mediterranean cuisine. Plants are prolific producers, delivering four or more fruits per plant throughout the growing season. With a 75-day maturity window, this variety offers a reliable harvest window for both experienced gardeners and beginners. The Long Purple Italian adapts well to various growing conditions and responds excellently to proper spacing and consistent watering. Its elegant appearance and superior flavor make it a favorite for home gardeners seeking authentic European eggplant varieties. All-time classic favorite eggplant. Produces club shaped fruits that are 10" long x 2" in diameter. Each plant will produce four or more fruits. Days to Maturity | 75 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Louisiana Long Green64–86 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    Solanum melongena (75 days) Tender, meaty and full of flavor describes this wonderful green eggplant from the South. Perfect for braising or ratatouille.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Turkish Delight F164–86 days

    Parthenocarpic; Greenhouse or field; High yielding; 8-10" fruit

    Stunning, slender and spineless fruit with a dark purple color and glossy appearance. Upright plants produce large yields of uniform, elongated fruit with eye-catching, deep purple skin and bright green calyxes. The fruit is spineless and long, making for easy processing. A productive variety for the greenhouse or field. From our partners at Genesis Seeds.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Casper White65–70 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Casper (White) eggplants have a shiny exterior with white flesh and skin. Fruits grow to be 6-10 inches long and around 3 inch wide. Plant seeds .25 inch deep in fertile soil with rows 2-3 feet apart and plants 12-18 inches apart in full sun, This plant does best in cooler summer weather. ~ 6,500 Seeds / Oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Long Ping Tung65–70 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual; disease resistant; heat tolerant

    Resistance: IR: Disease Resistant

    Long Ping Tung Eggplant Seeds originate from Ping Tung, Taiwan. Plants are disease resistant and do well even in heat. Fruits produced are 12-18" long and 1.25" wide. They are various shades of purple.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Pandora Striped Rose65–75 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    Pandora Striped Rose eggplants are a striking light pink color with white stripes. They are teardrop shaped and typically grow to be 5-6 inches long with no thorns. Each plant has productive yields and grows 30-48 inches in height. ~6,500 seeds per ounce.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • White Egg65–70 days

    Heirloom; Non-GMO; Vegetable; Annual

    White Egg variety eggplant plants produce fruits that look like actual eggs. Each eggplant is 2-3 inches wide and long, and has a smooth white exterior. Plants produce productive yields, especially after having time to grow some height. Sow seeds .25 inch deep indoors around 8 weeks prior to the final frost of the season.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Kyoto Egg - Hybrid68–92 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    80 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena 'Kyoto Egg'. Kyoto Egg Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. This small Japanese eggplant is a generous producer of unique round fruits that grow to 3 inches in diameter. The eggplants have glossy purple-black skin, a purple calyx, and tender flesh. The plant is upright and grows well in warm climates. Eggplants are useful companion plants to a variety of other vegetables. They produce well in open fields or greenhouses and in a pot on your porch or deck! Approximately 6,250 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Long Purple68–92 days

    Heirloom; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    80 days. The Long Purple variety of eggplant grows to be up to eight to ten inches long . The Long Purple reaches maturity in eighty days and is suitable for grow zones five to twelve. This variety does best in moist soil and full sun. This classic favorite produces club shaped fruit that are 10 inches long by 2 inches in diameter. Approx. 8,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Long Purple (Organic)68–92 days

    Heirloom; Organic; Container; Vegetable; Annual

    80 days. The Long Purple variety of eggplant grows to be up to eight to ten inches long . The Long Purple reaches maturity in eighty days and is suitable for grow zones five to twelve. This variety does best in moist soil and full sun. This classic favorite produces club shaped fruit that are 10 inches long by 2 inches in diameter. Approx. 8,000 seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Mizuno Takumi - Hybrid68–92 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    80 days maturity after transplanting. Solanum melongena 'Mizuno Takumi'. Mizuno Takumi Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. This shiny, purplish-black oval-shaped eggplant grows to a plump half pound. Mizuno Takumi is known for its watery flesh and tender skin; most people enjoy it cooked or pickled. The plants are heavy producers in open fields and greenhouses alike. Even grow these in a pot on your porch or deck! Eggplants are wonderful companion plants to a variety of other vegetables. Approximately 6,100 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Rosalina F168–92 days

    Container; Vegetable; Annual

    Rosalina F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 80 days to maturity. Can be growin in containers. Eggplant Rosalina F1 is a lovely, lavender / rose colored eggplant. This variety is a stunner in your home or market gardener's garden. About 6,500 Seeds / Oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Traviata F168–92 days

    Greenhouse or field production; Uniform; Spineless; 7” fruit

    Italian eggplant with high yields of extremely uniform fruits. Dark purple skin has a healthy shine when ripe and no spines. Fruit is abundant, setting regularly throughout the season. Plants are upright, sturdy, and very uniform. Bred by Vitalis Organic Seeds.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Cook's Choice (Organic)70–85 days

    Organic; Vegetable; Annual

    Organic Cook's Choice Eggplant Seeds. Open Pollinated, Non-GMO, Annual. Eggplant Cook's Choice is a tasty blend of eggplants that were selected for culinary use. The colorful mixture of eggplant varieties is well suited for any recipe use. Approx. 6,500 Seeds/oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • E-Star - Hybrid70–80 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    70-80 days maturity after transplanting. Solanum melongena 'E-Star'. E-Star Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, hybrid. E-Star is a Japanese round-shaped eggplant with glossy, deep purple-black color with purple calyx. Fruit are 3-4" in diameter and weigh about 350-400 grams. The flesh is white and firm yet creamy when cooked. This is a medium early maturing variety. E-Star is suitable for open fields and home growing. The plant is semi-upright, grows well in hot climates, and is a beneficial companion plant for other vegetables. Approximately 5,875 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Prosperosa F170–78 days

    Vegetable; Annual

    Prosperosa F1 Hybrid Eggplant Seeds. Solanum melongena. F1 Hybrid. Non-GMO. Annual. 70 to 78 days to maturity. Prosperosa F1 is an Italian hybrid that produces 4-to-5-inch round fruits. Approximately 6,500 Seeds / Ounce.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Talong Purple No.170–80 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    Resistance: HR: Bacterial Wilt; Phomopsis Rot

    70-80 days maturity after transplant. Solanum melongena 'Talong Purple No.1'. Talong Purple No.1 Eggplant Seeds. Non-GMO, warm-season, annual, heirloom. Talong Purple Long No.1 eggplant is one of the most popular grown eggplants in the Philippines. The fruit grows 6-8 inches long with purple-colored skin and a green calyx. It is tolerant to bacterial wilt and Phomopsis rot. Try growing these in containers with a cage or other support. Approximately 21,000 seeds per oz.

    View on True Leaf Market
  • Listada de Gandia72–98 days

    Gourmet appeal; 3-5” fruit

    Listada de Gandia is a stunning Italian heirloom eggplant with magenta-purple skin boldly striped in white, making a beautiful display. Very productive plants produce abundant tender, delicious fruits with unusually thin skin. The egg-shaped to elongated fruits have mild, sweet flesh with few seeds and are excellent for grilling, roasting, and frying.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Black Beauty74–83 days

    Productive; Classic shape; 5-6” fruit

    Classic Italian eggplant with high yields. Blocky, nearly black bell-shaped fruits have a slight signature ribbing. Medium to thick skin is deep purple and glossy when mature. Compact plants benefit from staking to support heavy yields of large fruit.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Annina F175–80 days

    Spineless; Greenhouse or field; 5-7” fruit

    Prolific yields of lovely striped fruit on upright, spineless plants. Performs just as you would expect a hybrid to, but with the aesthetic and flavor of the most cherished heirloom. Glossy, teardrop shaped fruits are uniform and gorgeous with bright green calyxes. An excellent producer both in the field and greenhouse, offering great versatility in production.

    Growing notes: Days to maturity are from transplant. A warm-season annual in the Solanaceae family which includes peppers, tomatoes, tomatillos, potatoes and ground cherries. Sow seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before last frost date. Optimal soil temperature for germination is 85°F. Seeds can be sown thickly in flats then planted in cell trays or containers after true leaves appear. Plant outdoors in daytime temperatures of at least 65°F and nighttime temperatures of above 50°F. Eggplants grow best between 75-85ºF in deep, well-drained sandy loam with pH 6.0-6.5. Eggplants are very sensitive to cold temperatures, even more so than their close relatives, peppers and tomatoes. Plastic mulch and floating row cover may be used to increase soil and air temperatures, as well as ward off insects. Eggplants will tolerate dry conditions, but do best with irrigation, especially during flowering and fruit set. Harvest eggplants when skin is glossy and thumbprint will not leave an impression (over- ripe if seeds are brown.) Regular harvest increases production of fruit. Store at 50- 55ºF with 90% relative humidity. Will keep quality for up to one week.

    View on High Mowing
  • Pandora Striped75–80 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors

    These seeds produce heavy yields of rose colored white stripe teardrop shaped eggplants - Pandora Striped eggplants are extremely tender and delicious - Perfect for home gardens and market growers - Great addition to any gourmet meal Days to Maturity | 75-80 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Round Black75–85 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Matures in <90 days; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    Fruits are black and round Excellent flavor and a must -try if you you enjoy eggplant Easy to grow Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Florida Market80–90 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    Bring home the Florida sunshine with these vibrant Eggplant - Florida Market seeds! Known for their glossy, deep purple skin and tender flesh, these classic beauties thrive in warm gardens and deliver impressive yields. Perfect for grilling, roasting, or your favorite eggplant dishes, Florida Market varieties are reliable performers that love the heat. Watch your garden transform into a Mediterranean paradise as these productive plants flourish. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting your hands dirty, these seeds promise delicious homegrown eggplants that'll make your neighbors green with envy! This plant will produce excellent yields of dark purple eggplants in the shape of teardrops The plants are strong and especially good for market growers Excellent for baking, slicing, and more Days to Maturity | 80-90 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Round Mauve80–90 days

    Can tolerate hot temperatures; Direct sow; Grows well in full sun; Grows well with containers; Grows well with raised beds; Start indoors; Super easy to grow

    This heirloom variety produces a beautiful round mauve eggplant with thin skin and a beautiful white flesh - Best picked with the eggplant is the size of a tennis ball - Perfect for container gardening Days to Maturity | 80-90 days Eggplant Seeds | Start seed indoors to allow at least 10 weeks for young plants to develop. Plant in rows 3 feet apart, with 2 feet between plants. Click here for complete Eggplant grow guide

    View on Seeds Now
  • Togo85–90 days

    Heirloom; Vegetable; Annual

    Togo Eggplant Seeds. African eggplant variety. Solanum melongena. 85 - 90 days to maturity. Heirloom, Annual. AKA Toga, Togo Striped. ~ 6,500 seeds/ounce

    View on True Leaf Market
Family
Solanaceae
Category
Vegetable
Form
Bush
Lifecycle
annual
Zone
2-13
Height
1.5–4 ft
Spread
1–3 ft
Sun
Full sun

Plant spacing

1 plant per square footSquare-foot planting diagram: one eggplant fills a 1-foot square, spaced 12 inches from its neighbors.
1 plant per square foot

In a square-foot bed, space eggplant about 12 in apart — that fits 1 plant in each 1-foot square (1×1). Wider rows or containers space the same.

Water
Medium

Plan your eggplant planting

Add eggplant to a free GardenDraft plan and get sow, transplant, and harvest dates computed for your ZIP code — with a drag-and-drop bed layout and reminders when it’s time to plant.

Start your free plan →

At a glance

Days to harvest
40–98 days
From transplant or sow to first harvest
Harvest style
Keep picking
Crops over several weeks
After harvest
Use within days
Quality eases off after peak
Frost tolerance
Warm-season · to ~50°F
Lowest temperature the foliage usually survives
Germination
~60%
Typical minimum germination rate

Storing & preserving

Most keep best refrigerated; storage crops prefer a cool, dry spot.

  • Freeze: Blanch briefly, cool, then freeze — keeps color and texture.
  • Can: Pressure-can low-acid vegetables; water-bath only pickled/acidified ones.

General home-preservation guidance — for tested processing times and safety, follow the National Center for Home Food Preservation.

Growing timeline

When to plant and harvest eggplantPlanting timeline for eggplant, relative to last frost: start indoors from 8 weeks before last frost to 2 weeks after last frost; grow from 2 weeks after last frost to 8 weeks after last frost; harvest from 8 weeks after last frost to 16 weeks after last frost.Start indoorsGrowHarvestLast frostTransplant
Start eggplant indoors ~10 weeks before transplanting 2 weeks after last frost; first harvest 8 weeks after last frost.
Seed to transplant
56-70 days
Outdoor planting
14 to 21 days vs frost
Propagation
Seed
Schedule anchor
Last Frost

Companion planting — with cited sources

From US/Canada cooperative-extension publications and peer-reviewed studies. Evidence-tier dots show how strongly each recommendation is backed: ●●● peer-reviewed mechanism · ●● extension consensus · traditional knowledge with a plausible mechanism.

Pairs well with (2)

  • Common BeanEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsn-fixation, pest-deter

    Eggplant interplanted with bush bean is a long-standing extension recommendation. Beans contribute residual N and several studies have reported reduced Colorado potato beetle pressure on eggplant in bean polycultures, likely through visual/chemical disruption of host-finding behavior.

    Source: S1, University of Maryland Extension

  • French MarigoldEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionspest-deter

    Tagetes patula suppresses root-knot nematode populations through alpha-terthienyl, reducing damage to eggplant which is highly susceptible to Meloidogyne.

    Timing: Best effect from a solid-stand marigold the prior season.

    Region: Especially valuable in warm-summer regions and in high tunnels.

    Source: S1, UC IPM

Avoid planting near (3)

  • Black WalnutEvidence tier A: Peer-reviewed studies in US/Canada production conditions with a clear mechanismallelopathy-negative

    Eggplant is highly sensitive to juglone from Juglans nigra; ISU, MSU, and University of Wisconsin extension include eggplant on the standard juglone-sensitive list.

    Region: Wherever black walnut is in the landscape.

    Source: S5, S8, S10

  • Common PotatoEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host, alternate-host-pest

    Eggplant is a preferred host of Colorado potato beetle and shares Verticillium susceptibility with potato; rotate as a Solanaceae group with 3-4 year intervals.

    Source: Penn State Extension, S7

  • Common TomatoEvidence tier B: Extension consensus across multiple US/Canada land-grant institutionsdisease-host, alternate-host-pest

    Shared Solanaceae pest/disease complex (Verticillium, early blight, hornworms, Colorado potato beetle).

    Source: S7

Sources cited

S1
Cornell University Cooperative Extension — vegetable production guides
S10
University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension
S3
UC IPM (University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources)
S5
Michigan State University Extension
S6
Penn State Extension
S7
University of Minnesota Extension
S8
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach
S9
University of Maryland Extension — Home & Garden Info Center

Care & troubleshooting— extension-sourced, with citations

When to feed, prune & water

Attract beneficial insects and protect pollinators

Protection
  • Routine carePlant insectary flowers and tolerate light pestsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Grow a diversity of flowering plants (including small-flowered umbels and asters) to feed predators and parasitoids, and tolerate low pest numbers so natural enemies have prey to stick around.

    Source: UC IPM; UMN Extension

  • Routine careNever spray open bloomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid insecticides on flowering plants and apply any needed sprays in the evening when pollinators aren't active, and favor selective products over broad-spectrum ones to spare bees and beneficials.

    Source: UC IPM

Mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture

Mulch
  • Routine careApply organic mulch around plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Spread a few inches of straw, shredded leaves, or compost around established plants (keeping it off stems) to hold soil moisture, suppress weeds, and moderate soil temperature; wait until soil has warmed for heat-loving crops.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

Plan crop rotation

Rotation
  • Routine careRotate plant families between bedsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid planting the same family in the same bed in consecutive years (aim for a 3+ year gap), grouping crops by family so soilborne diseases and pests that build up don't carry over to the next susceptible crop.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • Routine careSequence for soil healthmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Follow heavy feeders like tomatoes and brassicas with legumes or a cover crop to support soil fertility and structure, and keep simple notes each year so you can track where each family grew.

    Source: UMN Extension

Protect the garden from deer

Protection
  • Routine careFence the gardenstrong evidence — extension confidence

    A fence about 8 feet tall and tight to the ground is the most reliable barrier; an outward-angled or double fence, or monofilament line strung at 30 to 36 inches, can also deter deer on smaller beds.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell CCE

  • Routine careRotate repellents as a supplement· every 2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Where fencing isn't feasible, apply odor/taste repellents and alternate formulations, reapplying every couple of weeks and after rain; combining repellents with fencing works best.

    Source: UMN Extension; PennState Extension

Water deeply at fruiting

Watering
  • Routine careProvide steady deep watering during fruiting· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Once plants begin flowering and setting fruit, supply about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week in deep soakings rather than light sprinkles, ideally at the base; even moisture reduces cracking, blossom-end rot, and bitter or misshapen fruit.

    Source: UMN Extension: Tomato disorders; UMN Extension: Growing tomatoes

Clean up debris and sanitize at season end

Sanitation

Unusual this time of year.

  • Routine careRemove spent plants and fallen debrisstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pull and clear old plants, dropped fruit, and leaf litter at season end, since many pests and diseases overwinter in this debris; dispose of diseased material rather than composting it.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • Routine careClean tools, stakes, and cagesmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Wash and sanitize stakes, cages, and tools that touched diseased plants before storing or reusing them to avoid carrying pathogens into next season.

    Source: Cornell; UMN Extension

Cutworm collars at transplant

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

  • Routine careSet a collar around each new transplantstrong evidence — extension confidence

    When setting out transplants, slip a collar (a toilet-paper tube, paper cup with the bottom cut out, or similar) around each stem and press it a couple inches into the soil so it stands a few inches above ground, blocking cutworms from the stem.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

Harden off seedlings

Protection

Unusual this time of year.

Read: starting seeds indoors

Something looks wrong?

Describe what you see on your eggplantand we'll rank the likely causes — most likely first, least-invasive fix first.

Bacterial soft rot

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: mushy water-soaked decay of fleshy tissue; slimy soft rot of heads, bulbs, roots, or fruit; foul odor from rotting tissue; rapid collapse after wounding or in warm wet conditions; rot spreading in storage

  • CulturalRemove rotting plants and produce (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Soft rot can't be cured once tissue breaks down; promptly remove and discard affected plants and produce so the bacteria don't spread to neighbors or other stored vegetables.

    Source: Cornell NYS IPM

  • CulturalAvoid wounds and excess moisturestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Harvest in dry conditions, handle gently to avoid bruising, control insects that create entry wounds, and improve drainage; cure and store bulbs and roots cool and dry.

    Source: Cornell NYS IPM

  • CulturalDon't overwater and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid waterlogged soil and overhead watering that splashes bacteria, and rotate away from previously affected fleshy crops to lower disease pressure.

    Source: Cornell NYS IPM

Fusarium / Verticillium wilt

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: wilting that doesn't recover overnight; yellowing climbs one side or one branch first; brown streaking inside a cut stem

  • CulturalRemove the plant; rotate and choose resistant varietiesstrong evidence — extension confidence

    There is no cure once a plant is infected. Pull it, avoid planting the same family there for 3-4 years, and grow V/F-resistance-coded varieties next season.

    Source: UMN Extension: Tomato Wilts

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Late blight

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: large greasy gray-green blotches on leaves; white fuzzy growth on undersides in damp weather; brown firm rot on fruit/tubers; spreads fast in cool wet spells

  • CulturalRemove and bag infected plantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Late blight is highly contagious and can wipe out a planting in days. Pull and bag (don't compost) symptomatic plants to protect neighbors and nearby gardens.

    Source: Cornell: Late Blight

Phytophthora blight (root and crown rot)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilting and collapse of peppers or squash; dark water-soaked lesions at the crown or stem base; white cottony growth on infected fruit; root and crown rot; vine and fruit rot after heavy rain or in wet low spots

  • CulturalRemove affected plants at first sign (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Infected plants can't be saved; promptly pull and destroy them at the start of an outbreak to slow spread, and avoid working in beds when wet.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables; UMN Extension

  • CulturalImprove drainage and avoid waterloggingstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Plant on raised beds, never let beds stay saturated, and water with drip rather than flooding, since this water mold thrives in standing water and saturated soil.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables; UMN Extension

  • CulturalRotate and choose tolerant varietiesmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Rotate out of peppers, cucurbits, and tomatoes for at least three years where the disease has occurred, and select tolerant or resistant varieties when available.

    Source: Cornell Vegetables

Root-knot nematodes

Nematodesevere

Symptoms: galls or knots along roots; stunted plants; yellowing and midday wilting that recovers at night; poor vigor despite good care; patchy poor growth in beds

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then rotate (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Root-knot nematodes can't be eradicated from garden soil, so confirm via a county Extension nematode assay and rotate beds to non-hosts or resistant varieties (look for VFN-type resistance in tomato).

    Source: Clemson HGIC; UF/IFAS

  • CulturalPlant suppressive cover/rotation cropsmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    A solid planting of French marigolds grown 2+ months and turned under, or cover crops such as sorghum-sudangrass or cowpea, can lower populations between susceptible crops.

    Source: UF/IFAS; Clemson HGIC

  • CulturalSanitation and organic mattermoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Avoid moving infested soil on tools or transplants, build soil organic matter to support beneficial organisms, and keep plants well watered to help them tolerate root damage.

    Source: UC IPM; Clemson HGIC

Southern blight

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: sudden wilting in hot weather; yellowing then collapse of whole plant; white fan-like mold mat at the stem base and soil; tan-brown mustard-seed-sized sclerotia near soil line; girdled rotted lower stem

  • CulturalRemove infected plants and surrounding soil (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    Once a plant collapses it can't be cured; dig out the plant plus the top few inches of nearby soil containing sclerotia and dispose of it, avoiding spread on tools.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press; UC IPM

  • CulturalBury residue and rotatemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Deep-turn soil to bury sclerotia, remove crop debris at season end, and rotate susceptible solanaceous and legume crops with grasses for several seasons.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press

  • CulturalAdjust soil pH and plant earlymoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Maintain soil pH at the level recommended for the crop, since the disease is worse in low-pH soils, and time plantings so harvest begins before peak summer heat favors the fungus.

    Source: Clemson Land-Grant Press

Tomato spotted wilt virus

Virussevere

Symptoms: bronzing or purpling of young leaves; ringspots and concentric rings on leaves and fruit; one-sided or stunted growth; dark streaks on stems; mottled or blotchy ripening fruit

  • CulturalRemove infected plants (cannot be cured)strong evidence — extension confidence

    There is no cure once a plant is infected, so promptly pull and dispose of symptomatic plants to reduce the virus reservoir that thrips spread to healthy plants.

    Source: UC IPM; UMN Extension

  • CulturalStart clean and control weeds and thripsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use virus- and thrips-free transplants, choose resistant varieties (Sw-5 tomatoes, Tsw peppers) where available, and control weeds around the garden that harbor both virus and thrips vectors.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

White mold (Sclerotinia stem rot)

Diseasesevere

Symptoms: water-soaked stem or branch lesions; fluffy white cottony mold on stems and pods; sudden wilting of part of a plant; hard black sclerotia inside or on stems; collapse during cool wet bloom periods

  • CulturalRemove infected plants (manage, not cure)strong evidence — extension confidence

    There's no cure for an infected plant; cut out and bag affected plants including the black sclerotia, and don't compost them, since sclerotia survive years in soil.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalOpen the canopy and rotatestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space plants widely, control weeds, orient rows to prevailing wind, and avoid overhead watering at bloom to dry the canopy; rotate to non-host crops (corn or other grasses) for several years.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • CulturalWater at the base, not overheadmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Use drip or soaker irrigation to keep foliage and the soil surface drier, which discourages the sclerotia germination and mycelial growth that drive white mold.

    Source: UC IPM

Blister beetles

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: swarms of elongated soft-bodied beetles; rapid defoliation of leaves and flowers; gray, black, or striped beetles clustered on plants; skeletonized foliage on tomatoes and beans

  • CulturalHand-pick wearing gloves· every 2 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Wear gloves (these beetles release a blistering fluid) and knock beetles into soapy water, or use row cover ahead of swarms; their larvae eat grasshopper eggs, so tolerate light feeding when you can.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • OrganicSpot-treat heavy swarms· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If a large swarm threatens a planting, a pyrethrin or other labeled insecticide can knock them back per the label; avoid spraying open blooms to protect pollinators.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Missouri Botanical Garden

Botrytis gray mold

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: fuzzy gray-brown mold on leaves, stems, flowers, or fruit; soft watery rot on fruit and blossoms; dieback from cut or wounded stems; mold spreading in cool humid still conditions; blighted flowers that fail to set

  • CulturalRemove infected tissue and old blossomsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Prune out moldy leaves, stems, and fruit and clear fallen blossoms and debris where the fungus gets started, disposing of them rather than composting.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

  • CulturalImprove airflow and reduce leaf wetnessstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Space and stake plants for good air movement, water at the base in the morning, and harvest ripe fruit promptly so botrytis has fewer cool, humid, wet surfaces to colonize.

    Source: UMN Extension; Cornell

Colorado potato beetle

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: yellow-orange humpbacked larvae stripping leaves; striped beetles; orange egg clusters on undersides

  • CulturalHand-pick adults, larvae, and egg clusters· every 2 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Daily hand-picking into soapy water knocks populations down hard; crush the orange egg masses on leaf undersides.

    Source: UMN Extension

  • OrganicSpinosad - label use only· every 1 wk · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For heavy larvae pressure, a labeled spinosad product is effective. Rotate modes of action to avoid resistance.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Damping-off (seedlings)

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: seedlings flop over and collapse at the soil line; thin water-soaked pinched stem base; fungus gnats or constantly wet mix

  • CulturalDry out, ventilate, sow into clean mixstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Use sterile seed-starting mix, bottom-water and let the surface dry between waterings, add airflow, and don't over-sow. Damping-off can't be cured once a seedling collapses.

    Source: UMN Extension: Damping-off

Read: starting seeds indoors

Early blight

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: yellow leaves with dark concentric-ring (bullseye) spots; spotting marches up from the bottom; oldest/lowest leaves first

  • CulturalRemove affected lower leavesstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pick off spotted leaves into the trash (not compost). Mulch heavily to stop soil splash and water at the base.

    Source: UMass Extension

  • CulturalPrune for airflowstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Thin crowded interior foliage so leaves dry quickly after rain or dew.

    Source: UMass Extension

  • ChemicalCopper - label use only· every 1 wk · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Only if established and spreading. Apply per label every 7-10 days; follow rates and pre-harvest intervals.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: Cornell Vegetable MD Online

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Herbicide drift damage (growth-regulator)

Disordermoderate

Symptoms: cupped, curled, or strap-like distorted new leaves; twisted stems and petioles; parallel veins on narrowed young leaves; stunting and delayed fruiting; symptoms appearing on new growth days after a nearby spray

  • CulturalIdentify the source and protect future plantingsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Growth-regulator herbicides like 2,4-D and dicamba cause this distortion via drift or contaminated sprayers and mulch; identify and stop the source, and never use a sprayer that previously held herbicide on the garden.

    Source: UMN Extension; PennState Extension

  • CulturalSupport recovery if exposure was lightmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Plants only lightly exposed (not directly sprayed) often outgrow the damage; keep them watered and lightly fed so they can push out normal new growth, though fruiting may be delayed.

    Source: UMN Extension

Japanese beetles

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: leaves skeletonized between veins; lacy chewed foliage; metallic green-bronze beetles clustered on plants; feeding worst in warm midsummer sun

Lace Bug (Eggplant)

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: pale stippling and bleaching of upper leaf surface; dark varnish-like specks of frass on leaf undersides; clustered lacy-winged adults and spiny nymphs on undersides; scorched, browning leaves

Potassium deficiency

Deficiencymoderate

Symptoms: yellowing and browning along older leaf margins; scorched curled leaf edges; weak stems; poor or uneven fruit ripening; symptoms starting on lower, older leaves

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test firststrong evidence — extension confidence

    Edge scorch on older leaves has several causes, so get a soil test before adding potassium; over-applying can lock out magnesium and calcium.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • OrganicApply potassium per soil-test guidancemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If the test confirms low potassium, apply a potassium source (such as sulfate of potash) at the labeled/test-recommended rate and keep watering even, since drought worsens uptake.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Root rot from overwatering / poor drainage

Diseasemoderate

Symptoms: stunted yellowing plants that wilt despite wet soil; soft brown mushy roots; sloughing root outer layer leaving thread-like core; poor growth in low or compacted wet spots; seedlings collapsing at the soil line

Spider mites

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: fine pale stippling/speckling on leaves; fine webbing on undersides in hot dry spells; leaves bronzing and dropping

  • CulturalHose down and raise humidity· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Mites thrive in hot, dry, dusty conditions. Spray foliage (especially undersides) with water to dislodge them and reduce dust.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicInsecticidal soap or horticultural oil - label use only· every 5 days · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply to undersides per label; mites resist many products, so soaps/oils are preferred. Not in extreme heat.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Stink bugs (brown marmorated and native)

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: cloudy or corky spots on fruit; dimpled or pitted fruit; catfacing on tomatoes; shield-shaped brown or green bugs; barrel-shaped egg clusters on leaf undersides

  • CulturalExclude with row cover and clear nearby weedsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Cover susceptible crops with floating row cover before bugs arrive, and remove weeds and groundcover near the garden in early spring where stink bugs feed before moving to crops. Lift covers on flowering crops that need pollination.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM Pest Notes

  • CulturalHand-pick bugs and egg masses· every 3 daysstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Scout in the morning and drop adults, nymphs, and egg clusters into a bucket of soapy water; regular hand-picking keeps low populations in check since most garden insecticides work poorly on adults.

    Source: UMN Extension; UC IPM

  • OrganicSpot-treat young nymphs if numbers climb· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If small nymphs are abundant, a botanical such as pyrethrin or azadirachtin, or insecticidal oil, may give some suppression per the label; adults are largely unaffected, so rely mainly on exclusion and hand-picking.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Thrips on fruiting vegetables

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: silvery or stippled flecking on leaves; black specks of frass; distorted or scarred young leaves and fruit; tiny slender insects in flowers; deformed fruit set

  • CulturalRemove weed and crop reservoirsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Control flowering weeds in and around the garden and remove spent host crops promptly, since thrips build up on these and move onto fruiting vegetables; avoid planting next to onions, garlic, or cereals where thrips numbers spike.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

  • CulturalKeep plants vigorous and rinse foliagemoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Water and feed adequately so plants tolerate feeding, and a forceful water spray can knock down populations; reflective mulch can also deter thrips from settling on young plants.

    Source: UC IPM

  • OrganicTreat with spinosad or oil if needed· every 1 wkmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If thrips are damaging growing points or fruit, spinosad or insecticidal soap/oil can help per the label; rotate modes of action and avoid spraying open blooms to protect pollinators and natural enemies.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM; UF/IFAS

Tomato hornworm

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: large green caterpillars with a tail horn; whole leaves and stem tips stripped overnight; dark frass pellets

  • CulturalHand-pick (leave parasitized ones)· every 2 days · ~3 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Pick hornworms by hand at dusk. If one is covered in white rice-like cocoons, leave it - those are beneficial parasitic wasps doing your work.

    Source: UMN Extension

  • OrganicBt - label use only· every 1 wk · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For heavy infestations, Bt kurstaki per label targets the caterpillars.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Whiteflies

Pestmoderate

Symptoms: clouds of tiny white insects fly up when plants are disturbed; yellowing stippled leaves; sticky honeydew and black sooty mold; weak stunted growth

  • CulturalRemove infested leaves and hose off· every 4 daysmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Pick off and discard heavily infested lower leaves and rinse colonies off undersides with a strong spray of water; yellow sticky cards help monitor numbers.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

  • OrganicApply a labeled soap or oil· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a labeled insecticidal soap or neem oil per the label, covering leaf undersides; these reduce but won't eliminate whiteflies, so repeat as needed.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Whiteflies

Cutworms

Pestmoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: seedlings cut off at soil line; transplants toppled overnight; wilted clipped plants in a row; chewed stems near ground; gray-brown caterpillars curled in soil

  • CulturalPlace stem collars on transplantsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Push a collar (cardboard tube, can, or cup with bottom removed) a couple inches into the soil around each stem so it extends a few inches above ground; this blocks cutworms from reaching the stem.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • CulturalScout soil and hand-remove· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    In the evening or early morning, check the soil around damaged plants and remove curled larvae by hand; tilling beds about two weeks before planting also reduces larvae and pupae.

    Source: UMN Extension: Cutworms; UC IPM: Cutworms

  • OrganicApply a labeled Bt or spinosad· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If damage continues, apply a labeled Bacillus thuringiensis (kurstaki) or spinosad product per the label, targeting small larvae; Bt works best on young first- and second-instar cutworms.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM: Cutworms

Flea beetles

Pestmoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: tiny shot-hole pits all over young leaves; tiny black beetles that jump when disturbed; worst on seedlings

  • CulturalRow cover seedlingsstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Float insect netting over seedlings until they're large enough to outgrow damage; remove for flowering crops needing pollination.

    Source: UMN Extension: Flea Beetles

  • OrganicSpinosad or kaolin clay - label use only· every 1 wk · ~2 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For heavy pressure on seedlings, a labeled spinosad or kaolin-clay product helps. Follow the label.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Phosphorus deficiency

Deficiencymoderate

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: stunted plants with dark dull green leaves; reddish or purplish tint on leaves and undersides; delayed maturity and poor fruiting; symptoms worst in cold spring soils; older leaves affected first

  • CulturalCheck soil test and soil temperaturestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Purpling in cold spring soils is often temporary, since cold roots can't take up phosphorus that's actually present; warm weather usually resolves it, so confirm a true shortage with a soil test before adding phosphorus.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • OrganicAdd phosphorus only if the test calls for itmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    If low phosphorus is confirmed, work a phosphorus source into the root zone per the test recommendation, and keep soil pH in range since extreme pH ties up phosphorus.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UMN Extension

Aphids

Pestlow

Symptoms: clusters of tiny soft-bodied insects on new growth and undersides; sticky honeydew or sooty mold; curled distorted new leaves; ants tending them

  • CulturalBlast off with water· every 3 days · ~2 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Knock colonies off with a strong jet of water in the morning; repeat every few days. Light infestations rarely need more.

    Source: UC IPM: Aphids

  • OrganicInsecticidal soap - label use only· every 1 wk · ~3 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    For persistent colonies apply insecticidal soap to undersides per label. Avoid open flowers.

    Always follow the product label — it is the law.

    Source: UC IPM

Edema (oedema)

Disorderlow

Symptoms: small watery blisters or bumps on leaf undersides; corky tan or brown scabby spots on leaves and stems; yellow flecking on upper leaf surface; worse in cool cloudy humid spells; not spreading plant to plant

Magnesium deficiency

Deficiencylow

Symptoms: yellowing between the veins of older leaves; veins stay green (interveinal); common in sandy soils and containers

  • CulturalConfirm with a soil test, then correct· every 2 wks · ~4 wksmoderate evidence — extension confidence

    Interveinal yellowing on older leaves suggests magnesium. Confirm with a test; if low, a dilute Epsom-salt foliar spray is a short-term fix while you amend the soil.

    Source: UMN Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Nitrogen deficiency

Deficiencylow

Symptoms: oldest leaves uniformly pale yellow; plant pale and slow overall; common in containers and after heavy rain

  • CulturalFeed with balanced fertilizer· every 2 wks · ~4 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Apply a balanced organic fertilizer or fish emulsion; new growth greens up within ~2 weeks. Don't overcorrect.

    Source: UMass Extension

Read: diagnosing leaf spots & yellowing

Sunscald

Disorderlow

Symptoms: pale leathery patch on the sun-exposed shoulder of fruit; follows heavy pruning or leaf loss

  • CulturalKeep canopy coverstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Stop over-pruning and let foliage shade the fruit; shade cloth helps in heat waves. Damaged fruit is still edible if you cut out the patch.

    Source: UMN Extension

Transplant shock

Disorderlow

Unusual this time of year.

Symptoms: wilting or drooping right after transplanting; stalled growth for days after setting out; leaf scorch or edge browning on new transplants; temporary yellowing; recovery once roots establish

  • CulturalWater in well and provide shade· every 1 days · ~1 wksstrong evidence — extension confidence

    Water transplants in thoroughly at planting and keep the root zone evenly moist for the first week or two, and provide temporary shade during hot, sunny, or windy spells to reduce stress while roots establish.

    Source: UMN Extension; Missouri Botanical Garden

  • CulturalHarden off and plant gently next timestrong evidence — extension confidence

    Most plants recover on their own; to prevent recurrence, harden off seedlings before planting, set them out in mild weather or evening, and avoid disturbing the roots when transplanting.

    Source: UMN Extension