Eggplant

Solanum melongena

The glossy purple nightshade that loves warmth and rewards patient gardeners with dramatic, elegant harvests.

🌱 Root Zone: Medium
🌱 Annual ☀️ Full Sun 💧 Moderate Water 🌡️ Zones 3-9
🍆

Best Roommates 8

Tomato

Fellow nightshades with identical growing requirements—sun, warmth, water schedules. They share beneficial insect attraction and don't compete for root space.

Basil

Basil's aromatic oils repel flea beetles and spider mites that target eggplant; they're also nightshade neighbors with similar water needs and both thrive in warmth.

Carrot

Different root depths—carrots go deep, eggplant medium. Loose soil from carrot cultivation helps eggplant root development.

Onion

Strong pungent compounds confuse and repel flea beetles and spider mites. Onion's shallow roots don't compete with eggplant's medium-depth root system.

Marigold

Bright marigolds attract beneficial predatory insects and may deter flea beetles. They also add visual appeal and are edible.

Pepper

Another warmth-loving nightshade with complementary pest resistance. Basil benefits both eggplant and pepper equally, creating a triumvirate of summer production.

Spinach

Quick-harvest spinach uses space before eggplant's canopy expands. Its shallow roots cause no competition while providing living mulch benefits.

Garlic

Garlic's sulfur compounds deter spider mites and whiteflies. Spring-planted garlic is harvested before eggplant matures, avoiding competition.

Keep Your Distance 2

Potato

Both are nightshades with identical pests and diseases. Planting them together creates a perfect storm for Verticillium wilt and blight spread.

Cabbage

Heavy nutrient feeders that compete with eggplant for nitrogen and potassium. They also attract overlapping pest populations.

Growing Guide

🌱 Planting

  • Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost
  • Transplant when soil reaches 65°F (18°C)
  • Space plants 18-24 inches apart
  • Plant in well-draining, rich soil with pH 6.0-6.8

💧 Water & Soil

  • Water deeply 1-2 inches per week
  • Mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds
  • Consistent watering prevents fruit cracking
  • Avoid wetting foliage to prevent disease

☀️ Light & Temperature

  • Requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
  • Ideal temperatures: 70-85°F (21-29°C)
  • Protect from strong winds
  • Use row covers in cooler climates

🌿 Care & Maintenance

  • Stake or cage plants for support
  • Prune suckers below the first flower cluster
  • Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during fruiting
  • Monitor for common pests and diseases

Harvesting & Storage

🍅 When to Harvest

  • Harvest when fully colored but still firm
  • Ripe when gently pressed gives slightly
  • Best flavor developed at room temperature
  • Check daily during peak season

🏠 Storage Tips

  • Store at room temperature out of direct sun
  • Avoid refrigeration (cold ruins flavor/texture)
  • Use within 5-7 days for best quality
  • Can be frozen, canned, or dried for preservation

Troubleshooting Guide

🐛 Common Pests

  • Hornworms: Hand-pick or use Bt
  • Aphids: Spray with soapy water
  • Whiteflies: Use yellow sticky traps
  • Spider Mites: Increase humidity, use neem oil

🦠 Common Diseases

  • Early Blight: Remove affected leaves, improve airflow
  • Blossom End Rot: Ensure consistent calcium supply
  • Cracking: Maintain even watering
  • Powdery Mildew: Increase air circulation

Get Growing

Ready to add Eggplant to your garden? Find high-quality organic seeds to get started.

Find Eggplant Seeds

Common Questions

What are the best companion plants for Eggplant?

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a medium root plant. The best companions include Tomato, Basil, Carrot, Onion, Marigold, Pepper, Spinach, Garlic.

What should you NOT plant next to Eggplant?

Avoid planting Potato, Cabbage near Eggplant as they may compete for nutrients or attract similar pests.

Can I grow Eggplant in a container?

Eggplant can be grown in containers with a medium root system. Choose an appropriately sized container for healthy growth.

Rootmates helps you find the perfect plant companions for your garden.

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