When to Harvest Eggplant: Skin Gloss Plus Size Cues
Knowing when to harvest eggplant starts with the skin. Iowa State University Extension notes that fruit at the proper harvest stage is firm plus shiny. Overmature fruit is dull, seedy plus tough. Size matters too, but it varies by variety, so gloss plus firmness are the main signs.
The short answer
Harvest eggplant when the fruit is full sized, firm plus glossy. Iowa State University Extension suggests starting on large oval types at 2 inches across plus continuing until they reach 4 to 6 inches. Dull skin plus many seeds mean you waited too long. Cut the stem instead of twisting.
What does ripe eggplant skin look like?
Utah State University Extension notes that eggplant is usually harvested when fruit is full size with a glossy sheen. Overmature fruit becomes dull colored, soft plus seedy.
NC State Extension calls eggplant a large, fleshy, shiny fruit that varies in color depending on the cultivar.
How does size vary by type?
Iowa State University Extension advises harvesting large oval varieties from 2 inches in diameter until they are 4 to 6 inches across. Utah State University Extension cites 6 to 8 inches long as a typical harvest size.
NC State Extension notes that fruit may measure 4 to 8 inches long. Varieties include black types plus specialty types such as Fairy Tale, Ichiban plus Zebra.
| Cue | Ready | Overmature |
|---|---|---|
| Skin | Glossy, shiny | Dull |
| Feel | Firm | Soft or tough |
| Seeds | Small | Many, seedy |
Source: Iowa State University Extension plus Utah State University Extension.
How long after flowering is eggplant ready?
Utah State University Extension notes that fruits reach full mature size 10 to 20 days after flowering. NC State Extension lists about 105 to 133 days from seed to harvest.
UMN Extension adds that the plant goes on producing flowers plus setting fruit as you harvest.
How to: step by step
- Find the days to harvest for your variety.
- Check fruit 10 to 20 days after flowering.
- Look for glossy skin plus firm fruit.
- Measure large oval types from 2 to 6 inches across.
- Cut the stem with a knife or shears.
- Leave an inch of stem on each fruit.
Troubleshooting
Dull, seedy fruit: overmature. Pick sooner while skin is glossy.
Torn stems: fruit twisted off. Utah State University Extension advises cutting the stem.
Few new fruits: fruit left on the plant. UMN Extension notes the plant goes on setting fruit as you harvest.
For related reading see harvest timing, leaf anatomy plus checking soil moisture. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- When can I harvest eggplant?, Iowa State University Extension plus Outreach
- Growing eggplant in home gardens, University of Minnesota Extension
- How to grow eggplant in your garden, Utah State University Extension
- Solanum melongena (eggplant), NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox
FAQ
Can eggplant ripen off the plant?
None of these sources describe eggplant ripening after picking. Iowa State University Extension advises harvesting when the fruit is firm plus shiny, so pick at that stage instead of early. Utah State University Extension notes that fruit reaches mature size 10 to 20 days after flowering.
How should eggplant be stored?
Utah State University Extension notes that mature eggplant will store for 7 days if held at 50 to 55°F. Harvest with a knife or pruning shears rather than twisting the fruit. Iowa State University Extension suggests leaving an inch of stem on each fruit when you cut it.
Why is eggplant seedy?
Seedy fruit was left on the plant too long. Iowa State University Extension notes that overmature fruit is dull, seedy plus tough. Utah State University Extension adds that overmature fruit is dull colored plus soft. Pick while the skin is still glossy plus the fruit is firm.
Does picking eggplant help the plant produce more?
Yes. UMN Extension notes that as you continue to harvest, the plant will continue to produce flowers plus set more fruit. Check plants every few days during the season. Cut each fruit when it reaches full size with glossy skin, then look again for new fruit.
How long does eggplant take from seed?
NC State Extension notes that fruit may be harvested in about 105 to 133 days. UMN Extension advises starting seeds about eight weeks before planting outside. Utah State University Extension notes that fruit reaches mature size 10 to 20 days after flowering, so watch plants closely once blooms appear.
