The disease is seed borne and will survive on plant debris. The most effective prevention is to plant resistant varieties, use certified seed, and rotate fields. Eggplant is also susceptible to verticillium wilt and powdery mildew. The most serious pest of eggplant is the flea beetle. This small, round insect attacks seedling eggplants and destroys the meristem so the plant never develops past the two-leaf stage.
Spider mites are also a problem with eggplant, especially in hot, dry weather.
Occasionally, aphids, Colorado potato beetles, and caterpillars attack and must be controlled. Consult Extension Publication 554 for current insecticides to use. Harvesting Traditional eggplant fruit is ready for harvest 80 to 90 days after transplanting and when they reach market size. Oriental types can be as fast as 60 days, but first harvest is normally at 70 days. Harvest by cutting the tough stem with clippers or a knife.