Growing Eggplants - Benefits and Instructions
Benefits of Growing Eggplants
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Medicinal- Eggplants are high in polyphenols which may help cells do a better job of processing sugar if you have diabetes. Eggplants also contain several substances that show potential in fighting cancer cells
- Nutritional Profile - Vitamin A,K,C, calcium, potassium, iron and magnesium.
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Use in: Soups, stews, baked, fried, stuffed, curries, pickled.
Growing Instructions
Culture:
Sun Exposure: Full sun.
Soil: Eggplants are moderate feeders and do well in very fertile soil with pH level of 5.5 to 6.8. Apply compost and well-rotted manure along with bonemeal.
Moisture: Even moisture is essential while the seed is germinating. Eggplant prefer consistent moisture. The most critical time for water is when fruit is developing.
Planting: Seeds must be started indoors 8-10 weeks prior to last frost. Germination is slow (up to 2 weeks). Gradually harden off seedlings, but do not allow temperature to go below 15 degrees C.
Spacing: Plant 1 eggplant per square foot of growing space using Square Foot Gardening Method. Or plant in rows 18 inches apart.
Sow seeds: Sow 1⁄4 inch deep.
Harvesting:
Harvest anytime after the fruit reaches half of their size. Harvesting early prevents fruit from becoming too seedy and will encourage more production from the plants.
Storage/Preparation:
When stored at room temperature, eggplants will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Do not seal in bags or containers - A sealed plastic bag without any perforations restricts the airflow leading to moisture condensation. As a result, the eggplants lose freshness at a much faster rate. Eggplants can be frozen, pickled or fermented.
Companions:
Bush bean, pea, pepper, potato.