Shikou is an Asian eggplant variety that produces dark, glossy fruit measuring 6-8 inches long with a thin, tender skin and very few seeds. Its white interior makes it perfect for slicing, sautéing, or stir-frying without requiring peeling or salting. This attractive, productive plant brings elegance to any garden, and its semi-spineless nature makes it easy to grow and harvest. Shikou's excellent flavor and versatility make it a top choice for home gardeners and chefs alike.
Eggplant Growing Guide
Outdoor Sowing (Directly in the Garden)
- Timing: Sow eggplant seeds outdoors only in warm climates where the soil temperature remains consistently above 70°F. For most regions, starting seeds indoors is recommended.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Eggplants thrive in warm temperatures and fertile, well-draining soil.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 8–10 inches and incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Eggplants prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.0–7.0.
- Planting Seeds:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep and 6 inches apart in rows.
- Space rows 24–36 inches apart for adequate airflow and ease of harvesting.
- Thinning: Thin seedlings to 18–24 inches apart once they are about 3–4 inches tall.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply and regularly, especially during flowering and fruit formation.
Indoor Sowing (Starting Seeds Indoors)
- Timing: Start eggplant seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before the last expected frost date.
- Containers: Use seed trays or small pots with good drainage, filled with a light, well-draining seed-starting mix.
- Planting:
- Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep, placing 1–2 seeds per cell or pot.
- Cover lightly with soil and water gently.
- Germination:
- Maintain a temperature of 75–85°F for optimal germination.
- Expect seedlings to emerge within 7–14 days.
- Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when soil temperatures are consistently above 70°F and plants are 4–6 inches tall with 3–4 true leaves. Space plants 18–24 inches apart in rows.
General Care Tips for Eggplant
- Sunlight: Provide full sun with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Eggplants require warm temperatures to thrive.
- Watering: Water deeply and consistently, aiming to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Mulch around plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Eggplants are heavy feeders. Enrich the soil with compost before planting and side-dress with a balanced fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
- Weeding: Keep the area weed-free to reduce competition for nutrients and moisture. Be careful not to disturb eggplant’s shallow roots when weeding.
- Supporting Plants: Tall varieties or those with heavy fruit may require staking or caging to prevent the plants from toppling over.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests like flea beetles and aphids. Use row covers to protect young plants and apply organic pest control methods as needed. Ensure good airflow to prevent fungal diseases.
- Harvesting: Harvest eggplants when the fruits are firm and glossy, before the skin becomes dull. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the fruit from the plant, leaving a small portion of the stem attached.
