Climate / Temperature: Eggplant, a member of the Solanaceae family, is considered a native crop of India and is cultivated as a vegetable in various Asian countries. It is also grown in Egypt, France, Italy, and the USA. This crop is quite resilient and can be grown in dry regions with low rainfall. Eggplant is a good source of vitamins and minerals and can be cultivated year-round. India ranks as the second-largest producer of eggplant after China, with major cultivation occurring in West Bengal, Odisha, Karnataka, Bihar, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.
Eggplants require consistent moisture, necessitating irrigation every 3-4 days in summer and every 12-15 days in winter. Providing adequate water is crucial for high yields, and stagnant water should be avoided, as eggplants are sensitive to standing water.
Soil: Eggplants thrive in various soil types, but well-drained and fertile sandy loam is recommended for optimal growth. Light soils are suitable for early crops, while smooth and moisture-retaining soils can enhance yields. The ideal pH for eggplant cultivation ranges from 5.5 to 6.6.
Sowing of Crops: Eggplant seeds are sown in beds that are 3 meters long, 1 meter wide, and 15 cm high. Organic manure should be applied to the beds before sowing, and a solution of Captain should be sprayed two days before transplanting for plant protection. Seeds are sown at a distance of 5 cm, and the beds should be covered with dry leaves or compost. Light irrigation is necessary, and the beds should be covered with black polyethylene sheets or straw until the seeds germinate.
Field Preparation: Before sowing, the field should be plowed 4-5 times and leveled to create the necessary bed shapes.
Crop Cycle: Eggplants are typically grown in various cycles throughout the year, depending on local climate and variety.
Water Management: Ensure adequate irrigation while avoiding waterlogging, which can be harmful to eggplant plants.
Weed Management: To prevent weed growth, stir the soil 2-4 times for good growth and air circulation. Covering plants with black polyethylene sheets reduces weed pressure and maintains soil temperature. Pre-emergence herbicides such as Fluchloralin or Oxadiazon can also be used before sowing.
Harvesting: Fruits are harvested when they reach the desired size and color. Regular checks for ripeness are essential, and harvesting should occur once a week to ensure quality.
Diseases & Disease Prevention: Eggplants are susceptible to various diseases, including root knot disease and damping-off. Crop rotation and soil treatments, such as Carbofuran or Foret, can help avoid these issues. Damping-off occurs due to excess moisture, leading to seedling death; treat seeds with Thiram before sowing. Other diseases, such as wilting and fruit rot, can be managed using disease-resistant varieties and appropriate fungicides.
