Do eggplants need light germination?

Do eggplants need light germination?

Supplemental light isn’t necessary until the seeds have germinated, but I start it right away. This mimics the ideal growing conditions for eggplants and helps promote bushy, sturdy growth. Twelve to 14 hours of bright light will help prevent the plants from getting leggy.

Can you direct sow eggplant seeds?

Eggplant seed can be sown directly in the garden if the soil temperature is warm enough—and there are enough days in the season for plants to reach maturity. Seedlings started indoors should be kept under grow lights or in a sunny window after germination.

Do eggplant seeds need heat to germinate?

The seeds will germinate without additional heat, but it will take longer. Generally, eggplant seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days. Once they’ve germinated, remove the plastic cover and place your pot or flat under lights or in a bright window.

How do you remove seeds from eggplant?

Slice an eggplant lengthwise on a cutting board using a sharp kitchen knife. Hold a metal spoon with your thumb near the base of the handle and use it to scrape out the soft, seedy core from each half of the eggplant into the bowl of water. Keep scraping until all the pulp and seeds are in the water.

How long does it take for eggplant to harden?

of water. Eggplant seedlings will be ready to transplant in six to eight weeks. Harden off the seedlings carefully by gradually reducing ambient temps and easing off on watering. Wait until the weather has settled, with no chance of frost and the soil is warm before transplanting.

Should I harden off eggplant?

Eggplant will not germinate in cool soil. Harden off plants carefully before transplanting by reducing temperature and water. Wait until weather has settled, all chance of frost has passed and soil is in the 60s F before transplanting, perhaps 2 to 3 weeks after the average last frost date.

How do you harden an eggplant?

Seedlings and Hardening Off

1. When the eggplant seedlings are 1 1/2 – 2 inches high, cut off the two weakest ones, leaving the strongest plant to grow.
2. Once temperatures are consistently above 10°C/50°F, begin to harden off the eggplant.
3. Do not transplant eggplant near tomatoes or peppers (disease prevention).

What temperature does eggplant grow in?

The optimum daytime growing temperature ranges between 70°F and 85°F. When temperatures rise above 95°F, eggplant ceases to set fruit and may drop flowers or abort immature fruit. Fruit set is also reduced when temperatures fall below 60°F.