🌱 How to Grow Brinjal Kateri (Small Round Eggplant) from Seeds

Common Names:

• Hindi: बैंगन (छोटा गोल बैंगन)

• Tamil: கத்தரிக்காய்

• Telugu: వంకాయ

• Malayalam: വാഴുതിന

• Kannada: ಬದನೆಕಾಯಿ

• English: Brinjal Kateri / Small Round Eggplant

• Botanical name: Solanum melongena

1. Choose the Right Season

• Warm-season vegetable

• Best time to sow:

  • January to April and June to July (in mild climates)

• Ideal temperature: 20°C to 35°C

• Sensitive to frost — needs warmth

2. Prepare the Soil

• Soil Type: Loose, well-drained, fertile loam

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

• Mix in compost, vermicompost, and neem cake before planting

• Ensure soil is rich in organic matter

3. Sow the Seeds

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

• Spacing:

  • Garden: Space plants 18–24 inches apart

  • Pots: Use 12–14 inch deep containers, sow 2–3 seeds per pot, then thin to 1 strong plant

• Water gently after sowing

4. Watering

• Water when topsoil feels dry

• Keep soil moist but not soggy

• Reduce watering once fruits begin maturing

5. Germination

• Seeds germinate in 7–14 days

• Transplant when seedlings are 4–6 inches tall

• Handle roots gently during transplanting

6. Sunlight & Temperature

• Needs 6–8 hours of full sunlight daily

• Grows best in warm climates

• Protect young seedlings from strong winds

7. Fertilization

• Apply compost every 2–3 weeks

• Use low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizers during fruiting

• Wood ash or banana peel fertilizer helps with flower and fruit formation

8. Pest Control

• Common pests: Aphids, whiteflies, fruit borers

• Spray neem oil + soap every 10–15 days

• Pinch off damaged leaves and remove infected fruit early

9. Harvesting

• First fruits ready in 60–80 days

• Harvest when fruits are shiny, firm, and 2–3 inches round

• Cut with scissors — do not twist or pull

10. Regrow Tip

• Save seeds from fully ripe, overgrown brinjals

• Dry seeds thoroughly before storing

• In warm climates, mature plants can keep producing for months

🍆 Health Benefits of Brinjal Kateri

• Rich in fiber, antioxidants, and Vitamin C

• Aids in digestion and heart health

• Supports blood sugar control

• Low in calories — good for weight management