Black Egg Eggplant (70 Days)

The fruit resembles black eggs or teardrops because the skin and the calyx are deep black with a purplish tinge while the shape is like an egg. The Black Egg Eggplant is the only eggplant we know of with a black calyx. Japanese in origin, Black Egg produces unusually tender fruit on vigorous 3’ plants. Sets fruit early (even in cool weather) and is best picked early. 

30 seeds

PLANTING

Solanum melongena

Germination: 5-14 days

Germination Temperature: Optimum soil temperatures 75-90ºF. Cooler soil temperatures increase germination time.

Seed Sowing Depth: ¼” deep

Starting Indoors:  8-10 weeks before last frost. Sow in flats/cells/pots. Provide 75-90ºF soil temperatures. Fertilize the seedlings every 7-10 days with a liquid or water soluble fertilizer (diluted to ¼ of suggested measurement). Transplant seedlings 18-24” apart after last frost.

How much does a packet plant: 25-30 foot single row  

Harvest: When fruit is shiny and smooth, before losing its luster. Use a sharp instrument to cut the eggplants from the plant. Pick the first fruits when they reach usable size, this helps accelerate the growth of the other eggplants on the plant. 

Tips: The Black Egg Eggplant should be planted in fertile soil, and amended with compost if needed. It helps to use row cover early in the season, giving the plants extra warmth, especially in the north. Side dress when flowers begin to form.