Is pruning essential for eggplants?

For eggplant, frequent pruning is necessary to keep the plant healthy and productive. Fresh air prevents diseases, and pruning keeps the plant's energy focused on the quality and quantity of its fruit, rather than on producing leaves. A 25% increase in my harvest resulted from learning to prune correctly.

Time of pruning sessions: initiate the process once your plants are 12" or so tall. You want to prune early in the morning, when your plants are hydrated. Never prune when your plants are flowering or if the heat is extreme. I prune every 10-14 days throughout the season, prior to flowering and when your plant architecture is just right. You shouldn't shock your plants this way.

Use proper tools and sanitation. Wipe shears with rubbing alcohol between plants to prevent the spread of diseases. Make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle above a leaf node. Dull blades tend to crush stems, inviting entry to microorganisms. I take disinfectant wipes with me on rounds.

Detect over-pruning symptoms quickly. Wilting after pruning indicates excess pruning. Stunted growth occurs after excessive pruning. If this happens, treat with liquid kelp products and apply a temporary shade cloth. A recovery time of one to two weeks before flying is crucial.

To get both practice and better quality, combine pruning with support systems. Install support before the pruning is done. Train the remaining stems onto the supports. The outcome creates an open-vase shape which facilitates light penetration. Increased airflow naturally reduces spaces for pests.

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