Fast Facts
| Planting Season | Water Needs | Light Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Spring & Summer | Moderate-High | Full Sun |
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
| Region | Spring Season | Monsoon Season |
|---|---|---|
| Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan | Feb – April | July – August |
| KPK, Northern Areas | March – May | Not recommended (rain sensitivity) |
Quick Botanical Profile
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Botanical Name: Solanum melongena
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Family: Solanaceae
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Pollination: Self-pollinated with insect assistance
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Flowering Habit: Perennial (grown annually)
Growth Timeline
| Starting | Sprout | Vegetative | Flowering | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Day 7–14 | Day 30–50 | Day 50–70 | Day 80–100 |
How-To by Growth Stage
When to Plant Eggplant Seeds
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Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
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Transplant seedlings when outside temperatures stay above 20°C.
Where to Plant Eggplant Seeds
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Full sun location (6–8 hours daily).
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Rich, loamy, well-draining soil.
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✅ Use Organic Potting Mix from ApnaUgao.
How to Plant Eggplant Seeds
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Sow seeds ¼ inch deep in trays or small pots.
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Transplant into Grow Bags or garden when seedlings are 6–8 inches tall.
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Space plants 18–24 inches apart for best growth.
✅ Start seeds in 4" Plastic Pots for easy transplanting.
How to Harvest Eggplant
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Harvest when fruits are glossy and firm — size depends on variety.
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Cut with a sharp knife leaving a small stem attached.
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Do not pull or twist fruits.
How to Care for Eggplant
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Water consistently; avoid water stress.
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Fertilize every 3–4 weeks using Organic Vermicompost and NPK 19-19-19.
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Mulch around base to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
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Support taller varieties with small stakes.
Companion Planting for Eggplant
✅ Good Companions:
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Beans (help fix nitrogen)
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Peppers
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Tomatoes
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Marigolds (natural pest deterrent)
❌ Avoid Planting Near:
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Fennel
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Potatoes (shared pests like blight)
Scientific Variations – Eggplant
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Desi Baingan – Long, slender purple fruits (traditional variety)
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Globe Eggplant – Large, round purple fruits (common in markets)
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White Eggplant – Unique white-skinned fruits
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Green Eggplant – Pale green varieties for mild taste
Benefits of Eggplant
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Rich in fiber, vitamins B1, B6, and antioxidants
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Supports heart health and blood sugar control
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Low-calorie vegetable, perfect for weight management
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Versatile cooking uses — roasted, grilled, stuffed, or mashed
