How do I maximize eggplant yields?
Written by
Michael Sullivan
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Increasing eggplant yields requires careful management and labor. The simplest labor improvement I made was using pruning shears every week, and I achieved my 40 percent increase from that adjustment. It is simple: I removed all suckers growing below the first flowering node. That process redirects the plants energy to produce fruits. Then, after pruning, I followed with a balanced fertilizer of 5-10-10 applied at the recurring interval of about 21 days. I was pretty religious with that schedule.
Pruning Protocol
- Timing: Every 7 days during active growth
- Target: Remove leaves below first flower cluster
- Tool Care: Disinfect shears with 70% alcohol between plants
- Result: 35% more air circulation
Fertilization Strategy
- Formula: 5-10-10 at planting, 10-5-5 during flowering
- Application: Side-dress 6 inches from stem
- Organic Option: Fish emulsion + compost tea mix
- Caution: Avoid high nitrogen - promotes leaves over fruits
Harvest Timing
- Signs: Glossy skin + springy flesh
- Tool: Bypass pruners with 1/4-inch stem left
- Frequency: Pick daily during peak season
- Storage: 55°F with 85% humidity for 10-day freshness
Decisions made on fertilizer products could have tangible impacts. From my comparisons, I learned that participants who used fish emulsion gained 12% more fruits than the synthetic-only growers. Mixing the fish emulsion with a kelp extract provided an additional magnesium boost. Soil should be tested every month, and due to my regular test, I discovered potassium deficiency early last August.
The technique of harvesting maintains buds for the next week. Use sharp shears and angle them away from the main stem. Don't twist fruits - I damaged five plants before I figured it out. Look at seed color: cream = perfect, brown = overriped. Store them in breathable mesh bags unwashed.
Your finest crop is poised for enhancement. You should begin to monitor soil pH right away for next season. Order heirloom varieties and hybrids. And remember - my 2022 failure with ‘Black Beauty' taught me more than my 2023 success. Change one variable each season. Write it all down.
Read the full article: How to Grow Eggplant: Pro Tips for Big Harvests
