Eggplant Seeds,
Nagaoka Kinchaku

Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date. Transplant seedlings outdoors when the soil temperature stays consistently above 65 F. In cooler climates, row covers or black plastic mulch can help extend the growing season. In warm regions, seeds can be sown directly into the garden once frost danger has passed. If you are not sure how to find your local frost dates, check out our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in seed-starting mix, keeping soil temperatures between 75-85 F during germination. It typically takes around 10-15 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they develop 2-3 sets of true leaves, spacing them 18 inches apart. Choose a sunny location, enrich the soil with compost, and apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Water the plants regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps the soil warm. Fruit is mature when just slightly soft; immature fruit will feel rock hard. Continually harvest to keep plants productive.

• 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.