Specialty Eggplants
Italian Trio
Seeds are color coded with USDA food grade stain to distinguish varieties.
Undyed seed = Rosa Bianca eggplant
Green seed = Beatrice eggplant
Pink seed = Nadia eggplant
BEST TO START INDOORS
In early spring, start indoors about 2 months before outdoor night temperatures are reliably in the 50 (10°C) range. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 1 inch apart in a container of seed starting mix. Keep moist and warm and provide a strong light source until seedlings are ready to plant outside. When seedlings are 2 inches tall, transplant into deeper individual containers. Maintain at 70 to 75° (21-24°C). Feed with half-strength fertilizer every 2 weeks until weather is warm enough to gradually acclimate seedlings to outdoor conditions. Transplant 2 feet apart into rich soil in full sun.
GROWING NOTES
Don’t transplant these heat-lovers outdoors until night temperatures stay securely above 55° (13°C). Prepare soil well with aged manure or compost. Plant only robust seedlings with well-developed roots and mulch well. Fertilize plants regularly throughout the season.
HARVEST AND USE
Pick when fruits have sized up and are firm fleshed and glossy. Slice 1/2 inch thick, brush with olive oil and broil until tender. Then layer with a rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs and several cheeses to make Eggplant Parmesan. Bake whole in a hot oven, then scoop out flesh and mash with garlic, olive oil, lemon juice and chopped parsley for a savory dip to serve on toasted pita bread.
Sow Seeds Indoors |
Days to Germinate |
Transplant Outdoors |
Location |
Mature Height |
Transplant to Harvest |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February - March
|
10 - 21 days
|
April - June
|
Full sun
|
2 - 2½ feet
|
Approx. 80 days
|
Sow Seeds Indoors |
Days to Germinate |
Transplant Outdoors |
Location |
Mature Height |
Transplant to Harvest |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
February - March
|
10 - 21 days
|
April - June
|
Full sun
|
2 - 2½ feet
|
Approx. 80 days
|
Sow Seeds Indoors
February - March
|
Days to Germinate
10 - 21 days
|
Transplant Outdoors
April - June
|
Location
Full sun
|
Mature Height
2 - 2½ feet
|
Transplant to Harvest
Approx. 80 days
|