When to Plant and Harvest Eggplant
Heat-loving nightshade with glossy purple or white fruit, great for grilling
Soil pH: Target soil pH 6.5. Lime if a soil test reads below 6.0. Keep it within 6.0 to 7.0. Soil Test Desk
How many to grow for what you cook: Ratatouille, Eggplant parmesan. Plate to Plot planner
Pets: Not on the ASPCA list. ASPCA has no entry for this crop. Pet-Safe Garden Finder
Best Time and Place to Plant Eggplant
In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Plant Eggplant in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 65F to 95F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 30 inches between rows.
Planting Windows by Zone
| Zone | Spring | Fall |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | May 20 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 2 | May 15 to June 5 | Spring only |
| Zone 3 | May 10 to June 10 | Spring only |
| Zone 4 | May 1 to June 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 5 | April 25 to May 25 | Spring only |
| Zone 6 | April 15 to May 20 | Spring only |
| Zone 7 | April 1 to May 15 | Spring only |
| Zone 8 | March 15 to May 1 | Spring only |
| Zone 9 | March 1 to April 15 | July 1 to August 1 |
| Zone 10 | February 1 to April 1 | July 15 to August 15 |
| Zone 11 | January 1 to March 1 | August 1 to October 1 |
| Zone 12 | January 1 to February 15 | August 15 to October 15 |
| Zone 13 | Year-round | Year-round |
Spacing and Care
- Planting depth: 0.25 inches deep
- Spacing: 18 inches apart, 30 inches between rows
- Soil temperature: 65F to 95F
- Sunlight: 6+ hours
- Watering: 1-1.5 inches per week; consistent moisture is essential
- Days to harvest: 80
Fertilization
- 10-10-10 Balanced synthetic: 2 lbs per 100 sq ft at planting
- Compost organic: 3 inches worked in before planting
- Fish Emulsion organic: Every 2 weeks during fruiting
Companion Plants
- Basil
- Peppers
- Marigold
- Thyme
Avoid Planting Near
- Fennel
- Corn
Check any pair, and see which pairings have research behind them, on the Companion Planting Desk.
Harvest Signs
- Skin is shiny and brightly colored
- Flesh springs back when pressed gently
- Fruit has reached expected size for variety
- Cut stem with clean shears; do not twist
Track picks and rate the season on the Harvest Log.
FAQs
When should I plant Eggplant?
Eggplant planting depends on your USDA hardiness zone. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
What is the best time of year to plant Eggplant?
The best time of year to plant Eggplant is when your zone planting window is open and soil temperatures are around 65F to 95F. In USDA zone 7, the typical spring window is April 1 to May 15. Cooler zones usually plant later; warmer zones plant earlier.
Where is the best place to plant Eggplant?
Plant Eggplant in a spot with 6+ hours of direct sun, soil warmed to 65F to 95F, and enough room for 18 inches between plants and 30 inches between rows.
How far apart should I plant Eggplant?
Plant Eggplant about 18 inches apart, with rows around 30 inches apart.
What grows well with Eggplant?
Eggplant is commonly paired with Basil, Peppers, Marigold, Thyme.
How long does Eggplant take to grow?
Eggplant is typically ready to harvest in about 80 days under good conditions. Use the harvest signs below rather than the calendar alone.
How do I know when to harvest Eggplant?
Harvest Eggplant when skin is shiny and brightly colored. Flesh springs back when pressed gently Fruit has reached expected size for variety