Are eggplants perennial plants?

Eggplants behave as tender perennials in frost-free climates, but elsewhere, they are generally treated as annuals. Perennial viability largely depends on the weather and the condition of the plants. In USDA hardiness zones 9-11, plants can last for several years with some protection, which saves a significant amount of work compared to starting new plants every season.

Handle second-season plants differently from the first-year ones. Second-season plants will produce a crop earlier, although it will be smaller. Prune hard in the spring, removing all woody stems. Expect to harvest 40% less than you did in the first year. The plant is spending its energy on not dying rather than producing.

In cooler climates, grown in pots, they can be brought indoors before frost and stored at a temperature of 50 to 59 degrees, watered sparingly. I keep mine in a bright garage. Reduce the mass of leaves to one-half and allow the plant to conserve its energy. Don't place them in a warm room where they cannot rest.

Acknowledge clearly the limitations of perennialism. All else being equal, plants become progressively less productive after three years, as they age and become particularly susceptible to disease. Root-bound container plants can be quite the handful. Many gardeners prefer replanting annually for improved yields. It discourages pest survival through the winters.

If you enjoy taking cuttings from your perennials, take them. Take 6-inch stem cuttings before frost, and root them in water or moist perlite. The best part is that there is no worry about hybridization, and you'll have a replica of your favorite stuff without the hassle of starting from seed, and much quicker than overwintering fully grown plants.

Read the full article: How to Grow Eggplant Successfully at Home