How to Grow Lavender Eggplant
- 1). Start Slim Jim eggplant seeds indoors in temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch in rich potting soil. Mist the soil to keep it moist through germination.
- 2). Amend the garden area where you will transplant your Slim Jim eggplant with compost if the soil is poor. This will improve nutrient content and drainage. Spade compost into the soil 14 inches deep and wide enough for the 2- to 3-foot span of roots for each plant.
- 3). Transplant to the garden when seedlings are 4 to 8 weeks old, but not yet pot-bound. Outside temperatures should be at least 70 degrees Fahrenheit; wait until all danger of frost has passed. Give each Slim Jim eggplant 2 to 3 feet of space to fill out. Due to the purple foliage and lavender blooms, Slim Jim eggplants may be grown in ornamental beds instead of vegetable rows.
- 4). Ease the transplants gently out of their containers, being careful not to disturb the roots too much. Pull soil aside just enough to accommodate the root ball. Set the root ball in the hole, then firm the soil gently around it. Do not cover the top of the root ball with soil.
- 5). Mulch 3 inches deep around the transplant, but do not pile the mulch up against the stem. Water deeply to keep soil lightly moist but not wet throughout growing season. Eggplants tolerate mild droughts but not constantly soggy soil.
- 6). Cut off Slim Jim eggplants just above the cap with a sharp knife to harvest. Do not twist the fruit off the plant.
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