Eggplant Seeds,
Ensoro Ewia

33 ReviewsSKU: #EG220
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Min. 15 seeds

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Description

(Solanum aethiopicum). This flavorful eggplant is an indigenous variety of Ghana popular among the Ashantis. This variety is said to have been in use for over 150 years. The name Ensoro Ewia translates to "drought or heat resistant," and indeed this is a rugged, easy-to-grow plant! Unfortunately, this variety is becoming more rare in its homeland, so we offer thanks to Solomon Amuzu of Call to Nature Permaculture, who is working to reinvigorate interest in this variety in his home country of Ghana.

Growing Tips: Ensoro Ewia is an heirloom eggplant variety that thrives in warm, sunny conditions and well-draining, fertile soil. For the best results, provide consistent watering and regular feeding throughout the growing season. Mulching helps to maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Solanum aethiopicum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–8 hr.
Days to Germinate
10–15
Days to Maturity
75–90
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
18 in.
Ideal Temperature
75–95°F
Frost Hardy
No

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Ensoro Ewia eggplant should be planted after the danger of frost has passed. For optimal results, start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your area's last expected frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors 2-3 weeks after the last frost, when the soil temperature has warmed to at least 65 F. 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

Start seeds indoors by sowing them 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting trays filled with a quality seed-starting mix. Maintain a soil temperature of 75-85 F during germination for best results. Before transplanting outdoors, harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. Plant seedlings 18 inches apart in rows spaced 24-36 inches apart.

How to Grow

Avoid letting the soil dry out completely to prevent plant stress. Feed the plants every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer or organic compost to support their growth and productivity. Harvest the fruit when it is firm, glossy, and at its peak color. Regular harvesting encourages the plant to produce more fruit throughout the growing season.

How to Save Seeds

  • 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

Can Ensoro Ewia eggplant be grown in containers?

Yes, this variety can be grown in containers, as long as the pot is at least 5 gallons in size and has good drainage.

How do I know when to harvest Ensoro Ewia eggplant?

Pick Ensoro Ewia while the fruit is still firm, glossy and green to pale cream, before it begins to blush orange. Fully ripened orange-red fruit turns bitter and seedy, so harvest regularly rather than letting fruit color up on the plant.

Is Ensoro Ewia eggplant suitable for hot climates?

Yes, this variety grows very well in warm and sunny conditions and is suited for hot climates.

Browse our full range of eggplant seeds.

Customer reviews

3 / 5 3 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Huge plants: Plants grow tree-sized, up to 8 feet, so give them room.

  • Tough survivors: Bounces back from pests, wind and being knocked over.

  • Small, seedy fruit: Tiny fruits with tough skin; best roasted or in pesto.

  • Heads up: Slow and late to mature; expect the main harvest in fall.