How to Grow Early Black
Wikimedia Commons
Early Black
Solanum melongena 'Early Black'
vegetableEarly Black is a classic eggplant cultivar known for its deep purple, almost black glossy skin and compact growth habit. It matures quickly relative to other eggplant varieties, making it ideal for gardeners in cooler climates or those seeking an earlier harvest. The fruit is medium-sized, tender, and excellent for cooking.
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Example Early Black timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Early Black
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Early Black
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Early Black dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-9; can succeed in zone 4 with season extension
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Seedling
3-4 weeksSmall 2-4 leaf seedlings emerge 7-14 days after sowing. Cotyledons followed by first true leaves.
Keep soil warm (70-80°F) and consistently moist. Provide 12-16 hours of grow light daily. Begin fertilizing with diluted liquid fertilizer at 2-3 week intervals.
Vegetative/Transplant
4-6 weeksPlant develops 4-6 true leaves and grows taller. Stems thicken, and the plant is ready for transplanting into 4-inch pots.
Gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions (harden off) over 7-10 days. Maintain temperatures between 60-75°F at night. Pinch growing tips to encourage bushiness if desired.
Flowering
2-4 weeksPurple flowers appear on branch nodes. Plant is established in the garden with 12+ leaves and visible flower buds.
Maintain consistent watering and soil moisture. Apply balanced fertilizer or switch to lower-nitrogen formulation to encourage flowering. Ensure adequate sunlight for pollination.
Fruiting
2-3 weeksSmall green fruits develop behind flowers and grow rapidly. Skin darkens to deep purple-black within 1-2 weeks. Fruits reach 4-6 inches long.
Continue consistent watering; water stress affects fruit quality. Support heavy fruit branches with stakes if needed. Pinch off lower leaves to improve air circulation.
Harvest
3-4 weeks or until frostFruits are glossy, firm, and deep purple-black at full maturity. Skin should give slightly to gentle pressure.
Harvest when glossy; skin dulls as fruit over-matures. Use pruning shears to cut fruit (don't pull). Regular harvesting promotes continued flowering and production.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Handpick adults and eggs; use row covers on young plants. Apply spinosad or neem oil if infestation occurs. Encourage native predators.
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Use floating row covers on seedlings. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Mulch well and maintain plant vigor.
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Increase humidity by misting foliage. Spray with strong water stream to dislodge. Use neem oil or miticide if severe. Ensure adequate watering.
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Use yellow sticky traps. Spray undersides of leaves with neem oil or insecticidal soap weekly. Encourage beneficial insects.
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Choose resistant varieties when possible. Ensure good drainage and avoid overhead watering. Remove infected plants. Rotate crops; sanitize tools.
Uses
Roasting and grilling
CulinaryEarly Black eggplants are perfect for roasting, grilling, and broiling due to their tender flesh and ability to absorb flavors. Slice and brush with oil, then cook until golden and soft. [source]
Classic eggplant dishes
CulinaryIdeal for Italian eggplant parmesan, Mediterranean stews, ratatouille, and Middle Eastern baba ganoush. The firm yet tender texture holds up well in cooked preparations. [source]
Asian cuisine
CulinaryExcellent for stir-fries, curries, and braised dishes. The skin is thin enough to eat when cooked, and the flesh absorbs spices and sauces readily. [source]
Nutritional benefits
MedicinalEggplant contains nasunin, an anthocyanin with antioxidant properties, and is low in calories with good fiber content. Traditional use in some cultures for digestive support. [source]
Ornamental garden appeal
HouseholdThe glossy purple-black fruits and compact bushy plant make Early Black eggplant an attractive addition to vegetable gardens, adding both beauty and productivity. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Begin harvesting 60-75 days after transplanting when fruits are 4-6 inches long and skin is glossy deep purple-black. Use pruning shears or a sharp knife to cut the fruit stem; do not pull, as this can damage the plant. Harvest regularly (every 3-5 days) to encourage continued production throughout the season. Fruits are best eaten fresh within a few days of harvest. Continue harvesting until the first frost.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Early Black was developed specifically for shorter growing seasons and cooler climates, making it one of the earliest maturing eggplant varieties available.
- 🌱 The deep purple-black color comes from anthocyanins, the same beneficial pigments found in blueberries and purple grapes.
- 🌱 Eggplants are technically berries and are botanically related to tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes—all members of the nightshade (Solanaceae) family.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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