Therefore, after the soil has thoroughly warmed in the spring, set out 6 to 8 week-old transplants to get a head start toward harvest. Do not plant eggplant in the garden until after the last chance of frost. Seeds germinate quickly at 70 to 90 F. Purchase eggplant transplants from a reputable garden center to ensure that the plants are the best quality. Do not purchase tall, spindly plants or plants that have blossoms. Blossoms on the transplants will slow their growth after transplanting and may result in a lower yield.
All dates are for transplanting plants.
Space plants 2 to 2 feet apart in rows that are 3 to 4 feet apart. When plants are about 6 inches tall, nip back the growing tip to encourage branching. SOIL Eggplant grows best in a well-drained sandy loam or loam soil, fairly high in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 5.8 and 6.5 for best growth. The long, slender Japanese eggplant has a thinner skin and more delicate flavor.