Eggplant Italian Long Purple - 50 Seeds
 
The Italian Long Purple Eggplant is a classic variety, cherished for its slender, elongated fruits with glossy, deep purple skin and a superb, mild flavour. These beautiful eggplants are less bitter than some other varieties, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of culinary uses, from grilling and baking to frying and adding to stir-fries. They are a prolific producer, offering a continuous harvest of these elegant vegetables, making them a fantastic addition to any home garden or vegetable patch.
 
 
To prepare Eggplant Italian Long Purple seeds for planting, no specific pre-treatment like scarification or cold stratification is typically required. Fresh seeds generally germinate readily without these methods. However, soaking the seeds in lukewarm water for 12-24 hours prior to planting can sometimes help to soften the seed coat and encourage more uniform germination, though this is optional.
 
 
Sow the seeds about 0.5-1 cm deep in a well-draining seed-raising mix. Eggplants are warm-season vegetables, so it's crucial to sow them when temperatures are consistently warm, ideally between 20-30°C. In areas with cooler climates, it's best to start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, but avoid overwatering. Provide plenty of light, and once seedlings have developed a few true leaves and all danger of frost has passed, transplant them carefully into a sunny location with well-drained, fertile soil. Ensure adequate spacing for good air circulation and support if needed as the plants grow and bear fruit.