🌱 How to Grow Black Brinjal (Long) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: काला बैंगन (Kala Baingan)

• Tamil: கருப்பு வெங்காயம் (Karuppu Vengayam)

• Telugu: నల్ల వంకాయ (Nalla Vankaya)

• Malayalam: കറുപ്പ് വാഴക്ക (Karuppu Vazhakka)

• Kannada: ಕಪ್ಪು ಬದನೆಕಾಯಿ (Kappu Badanekayi)

• English: Black Brinjal (Long) / Eggplant

• Botanical name: Solanum melongena

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season crop

• Best time to sow: February to June or early monsoon (June-July)

• Avoid cold or frost; brinjal grows well above 20°C

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Well-drained, fertile, loamy or sandy loam soil

• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0)

• Add compost or well-rotted manure before planting

3. Sow the Seeds

• Sow seeds in seed trays or nursery beds for better germination

• Depth: Sow seeds about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) deep

• Thin seedlings and transplant when 4–6 inches tall

• Plant spacing: 18–24 inches between plants, 24–30 inches between rows

4. Watering

• Keep soil moist but not waterlogged

• Water deeply once or twice a week, more often in dry weather

• Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds

5. Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under warm conditions

• Thin out weak seedlings early to promote strong growth

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 6–8 hours of full sunlight daily

• Optimal growing temperature: 21°C to 30°C

• Protect young plants from cold winds

7. Fertilization

• Apply balanced organic fertilizer or compost at planting

• Side-dress with nitrogen-rich fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during growth

• Avoid excess nitrogen to prevent excessive foliage and low fruit set

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, fruit borers, spider mites

• Use neem oil or organic insecticidal sprays regularly

• Remove affected leaves and keep the area clean

9. Harvesting

• First fruits appear in 70–90 days after sowing

• Harvest when fruits are shiny, firm, and of desired size (6–8 inches long)

• Cut fruits gently with a sharp knife to avoid damaging the plant

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from fully ripe, healthy fruits

• Dry seeds properly and store in a cool, dry place for next season

• Black Brinjal is generally grown annually

🌿 Health Benefits of Black Brinjal

• Rich in dietary fiber, supports digestion

• Contains antioxidants like nasunin, beneficial for brain health

• Low calorie and rich in vitamins B1, B6, and potassium

• May help lower cholesterol and support heart health