How to Grow Eggplant (Brinjal) – Home Planting Guide

Fast Facts

About Eggplant (Brinjal)

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is a heat-loving vegetable that's perfect for Pakistan’s long, warm growing seasons. Available in many shapes, sizes, and colors — from traditional desi baingan to exotic purple globes — eggplants are a highly versatile kitchen crop, ideal for bharta, curries, grilling, and pickles.

When to Plant Eggplant in Pakistan

Quick Botanical Profile

• Botanical Name: Solanum melongena

• Family: Solanaceae

• Pollination: Self-pollinated with insect assistance

• Flowering Habit: Perennial (grown annually)

Growth Timeline

How-To by Growth Stage

When to Plant Eggplant Seeds

• Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.

• Transplant seedlings when outside temperatures stay above 20°C.

Where to Plant Eggplant Seeds

• Full sun location (6–8 hours daily).

• Rich, loamy, well-draining soil.

• ✅ Use Organic Potting Mix from ApnaUgao.

How to Plant Eggplant Seeds

• Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in trays or small pots.

• Transplant into Grow Bags or garden when seedlings are 6–8 inches tall.

• Space plants 18–24 inches apart for best growth.

✅ Start seeds in 4" Plastic Pots for easy transplanting.

How to Harvest Eggplant

• Harvest when fruits are glossy and firm — size depends on variety.

• Cut with a sharp knife leaving a small stem attached.

• Do not pull or twist fruits.

How to Care for Eggplant

• Water consistently; avoid water stress.

• Fertilize every 3–4 weeks using Organic Vermicompost and NPK 19-19-19.

• Mulch around base to retain moisture and reduce weeds.

• Support taller varieties with small stakes.

Companion Planting for Eggplant

✅ Good Companions:

• Beans (help fix nitrogen)

• Peppers

• Tomatoes

• Marigolds (natural pest deterrent)

❌ Avoid Planting Near:

• Fennel

• Potatoes (shared pests like blight)

Scientific Variations – Eggplant

• Desi Baingan – Long, slender purple fruits (traditional variety)

• Globe Eggplant – Large, round purple fruits (common in markets)

• White Eggplant – Unique white-skinned fruits

• Green Eggplant – Pale green varieties for mild taste

Benefits of Eggplant

• Rich in fiber, vitamins B1, B6, and antioxidants

• Supports heart health and blood sugar control

• Low-calorie vegetable, perfect for weight management

• Versatile cooking uses — roasted, grilled, stuffed, or mashed

🛒 Shop ApnaUgao Online for Growing "Eggplant Plants"

• Buy Eggplant Seeds Collection

• Grow Bags Collection

• Organic Potting Mix

• Vermicompost