Description

Eggplant is a plant species in the nightshade family Solanaceae. Solanum melongena is grown worldwide for its edible fruit. Most commonly purple, the spongy, absorbent fruit is used in several cuisines. Typically used as a vegetable in cooking, it is a berry by botanical definition. As a member of the genus Solanum, it is related to the tomato and potato. Like the tomato, its skin and seeds can be eaten, but, like the potato, it is usually eaten cooked. Eggplant is nutritionally low in macronutrient and micronutrient content, but the capability of the fruit to absorb oils and flavors into its flesh through cooking expands its use in the culinary arts.

Agronomy for growing Eggplant

• Soil

Well drained sandy loam soil is suitable

• Sowing time

As per the regional practices and timings

• Optimum temp. for germination

25-30°C

• Transplanting

30-35 days after sowing

• Spacing

Row to Row: 75-90 cm, Plant to Plant: 60-75 cm

• Seed rate

100 gm/acre

• Preparation of Main field

Deep ploughing and harrowing. Apply well decomposed FYM @ 7-8 tons per acre followed by harrowing to mix in the soil thoroughly. Open the ridges and furrows at required spacing. Irrigate the field and make the holes at the recommended spacing. Transplanting should be done during afternoon, after transplanting light irrigation should be given for quick and better establishment

• Chemical Fertilizer

Fertilizer requirement varies with soil fertility

• First dose 6-8 days after transplanting

50:50:60 NPK kg/acre

• Second dose 20-25 days after first application

25:50:60 NPK kg/acre

• Third dose 20-25 days after second application

25:50:60 NPK kg/acre Calcium nitrate (1%solution) should be sprayed at the time of flowering increases fruit-set

• Plant Protection

Follow plant protection measures as and when require