In tropical and subtropical climates, the eggplant can be sown directly into the soil. Those produced in temperate climates, on the other hand, require indoor sowing (seedbed) and flaring only at the end of the cold season. Usually, in the latter case, the seeds are started eight or ten weeks in advance.
Many of the pests and diseases that affect other solanaceae (tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, etc.) also attack eggplant; for this reason, the plant should not be cultivated in the land previously occupied by the aforementioned cultivars and the temporal separation between the two crops should be at least four years.
The most common parasites in the western hemisphere are potato beetles, flea beetles, aphids and mites. Adult specimens can be removed by hand, although flea beetles can be particularly difficult to locate.
Good hygiene and crop rotation are extremely important precautions also for the control of fungal diseases, the most serious of which is Verticillium mycosis.
Depending on the cultivar and the instrumentation used, the spacing between the aubergine plants should be between 45cm and 60cm, while between the rows at least 60cm or 90cm.
Mulching (covering the soil with a cloth or fabric) helps maintain moisture, prevent weed growth and prevent fungal diseases. The flowers are relatively little frequented by bees and often the first blooms do not ripen in fruit. At the beginning of the season, manual pollination is certainly more advisable.
Usually, farmers cut the fruit from the plant just above the glass, into the woody portion.
The flowers are complete and contain both male and female structures, and can be self-pollinated or cross-pollinated.
Solanum melongena is included in the list of low flammability plants of the "Tasmania Fire Brigade", which determines their suitability for the internal cultivation of buildings.
