If you don’t wish to plan ahead this way, you can purchase eggplant seedlings directly from a gardening center or nursery.

Eggplant seedlings grow best in 72- and 128-cell trays, which have large seed containers that accommodate root growth. [3] X Trustworthy Source Penn State Extension Educational organization dedicated to delivering science-based information to people, businesses, and communities Go to source Buy seed trays at garden centers or online.

The potted seedlings should be kept indoors until the outdoor temperature reaches at least 70 °F (21 °C).

Purchase organic soil amendment materials, such as sand, vermiculite, perlite, or compost, at a local garden center or hardware store.

Be sure to use grass clipping from untreated lawns, as chemicals and fertilizers may harm your plants. Layer at least 1 inch (2. 5 cm) of mulch to protect your plants.

Insert the stakes right away after transplanting your seedlings to avoid disturbing the soil later on.

If you are overwhelmed with flea beetles during the growing season, destroy your plants and cultivate the soil in the spring to destroy any larvae that may remain there.

Lift the row covers to water your eggplants, and remove them completely when it’s time to harvest. Purchase row covers at garden centers or online.

Eggplants will keep for 2 weeks if you refrigerate them.