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Eggplant Seeds, Mitoyo
Description
(Solanum melongena). These oval fruits are large, teardrop-shaped and nearly black. The flesh is very tender and sweet. It is even highly recommended for use without cooking! It is also excellent baked or roasted, and is often pickled as well in its native Japan, where the variety was originally collected at a local market. Traditionally grown in the Mitoyo and Kanonji areas, it is one of the best-tasting eggplants we have ever tried.
- 90 days to maturity
- 6-8 hours of full sun
- Sprouts in 10-15 days
- Seed Depth: 1/4"
- Plant Spacing: 18"
- Ideal Temperature: 75-95 F
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
This ancient Japanese heirloom grows best in full sun and nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Mulch and water regularly to keep the soil moisture and temperature consistent. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, as it can lead to excessive leafy growth at the expense of fruit production.
When to Grow
Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last frost date, as eggplants need a long, warm growing season. Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, and the soil temperature is consistently at least 65 F. In cooler regions or shorter growing seasons, use row covers or black plastic mulch to warm the soil and protect the plants. If you are not sure how to find your local frost dates, check out our blog post ‘Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.’
How to Sow and Plant
Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed trays or small pots filled with a seed-starting mix. Keep the soil temperature between 75-85 F during germination. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they have 2-3 sets of true leaves, spacing them 18 inches apart to give them enough room to grow. Choose a sunny location and enrich the soil with compost or organic matter before planting. Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil warm.
How to Grow
Water Mitoyo eggplant deeply and regularly, keeping the soil moist but not soggy. Mulch around the base of the plants to maintain soil moisture and temperature. Fruits will begin to mature about 90 days after transplanting. Harvest when they are firm, shiny, and about 4-6 inches long. Regular harvesting encourages continuous fruit production throughout the season.
How to Save
- Eggplants are not insect-pollinated, so it is not necessary to isolate the plants very much to ensure pure seed. For home gardeners, an isolation distance of at least 40 feet is sufficient for seed saving.
- Allow fruit to become overripe; the fruit will become slightly wrinkled and soft.
- Scoop seeds out, rinse, and spread out to dry thoroughly.
- Properly stored eggplant seeds will remain viable for up to 4 years.
FAQ
When should I harvest Mitoyo eggplant?
Harvest when the fruits are firm, glossy, and 4-6 inches long. Avoid letting fruits overripen, as they may lose their tenderness and flavor.
What does Mitoyo eggplant taste like?
It has a creamy, rich flavor and tender texture, making it ideal for Japanese cuisine, where it originates from, and other dishes like grilling, roasting, or stir-frying.
Can Mitoyo eggplant grow in cooler climates?
While it prefers warm climates, it can be grown in cooler regions if started indoors and transplanted after the soil has warmed. Use row covers or mulch to protect plants from cool temperatures.
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