Eggplant - Cultivation
Eggplants thrive in warm weather and can grow in containers, raised beds, or gardens with plenty of space to expand. Eggplants like to grow vertically and should be staked to provide support for the upright growth. Well-drained, fertile soil provides optimum growing conditions and they also need fertilizer and mulch to help keep the soil moist, warm, and nutrient dense. Many insects can harm Eggplants, so covering the plant and weekly inspecting the underside of leaves can help protect against damage. Eggplants are grown from seed indoors for a month before transplanting outside to ensure the sprouts can survive. Eggplants are harvested in the summer, and mature fruits should be picked immediately as they can stunt the further growth of other fruits on the same branch.