KANAKADURGA BRINJAL

Eggplant – Characteristics & Cultivation Instructions

Plant Characteristics

• Eggplant is a warm-weather crop requiring full sun exposure.
• Optimal Germination Temperature: 24–29°C (seedlings emerge in 6–8 days)
• Ideal Growth & Fruit Development Temperature: 22–30°C
• Frost Sensitivity: Cannot tolerate frost; growth slows below 16°C
• Heat Sensitivity: Growth reduces above 35°C
• Soil Adaptability: Tolerates various soils; prefers deep, fertile, and well-drained sandy loam or silt loam
• Climate Tolerance: Can withstand drought and excessive rainfall, with reduced growth under extreme conditions

Cultivation Instructions

• Eggplant is a long-duration crop requiring consistent nutrient and water management.
• Fertilization: Apply NPK fertilizers during growth (at 3 and 6 weeks after transplanting) and during harvesting (every 2–3 weeks).
• Irrigation: Essential during dry periods, especially in the growing and fruiting stages.
• Crop Rotation: Avoid planting on land previously used for solanaceous crops such as potato, tomato, or pepper to reduce disease risk.
• Harvest Timeline: From flowering to market-size fruits takes about 3–4 weeks.
• Harvesting Tip: Harvest firm, heavy fruits while they are still glossy and have a desirable color.