A widely used international food thought to have originated in Japan, eggplant is fast becoming a favorite in the U.S. This long, slender variety, not usually found in grocery stores, is flavorsome in countless recipes from Italy to China to Russia and beyond. Also called 'Italian Long Purple', this prolific heirloom will bring beautiful color to the garden and savory goodness to the table.
When to Sow Outside: 2 to 4 weeks after your average last frost date, when soil temperature is at least 70°F, ideally 80°–90°F, and when outside night air temperature is above 60°F.
When to Start Inside: RECOMMENDED. 10 to 12 weeks before your average last frost date. Transplant outdoors 1 to 2 weeks after last frost, when soil temperature is at least 60°F, and outside night air temperature is above 60°F.
Days to Emerge: 10–20 days
Seed Depth: ¼"
Seed Spacing: Start indoors
Row Spacing: 36"
Thinning: Start indoors; plant 18" apart outside
