Eggplant - Japanese - Cultivation
Japanese eggplants grow on a bushy plant that thrives in climates with long summers, full sun, and daily heat. They can be grown in gardens, raised beds, or containers, as long as the plants have enough space to spread out. Stakes or poles can also be used to help support the weight of the plant and keep it upright. Japanese eggplants grow in fertile, moist soil that drains well and needs constant fertilization to help encourage fruit growth. They should be fertilized multiple times throughout the growing process and watered weekly. Mulching using grass, compost, or straw will also help protect the plant as it prevents weed growth, keeps the soil moist, and keeps the roots cool. Japanese eggplants are not frost tolerant and are recommended to be grown under floating covers to help keep the plant warm and have protection from insects. Japanese eggplants can be grown year-round in warm climates but are best harvested in the summer through the fall.