Some of the preparation for this project, began prior to week one for the ideal planting timeline.
A quick recap…
- Zebra Eggplant, Solanum aethiopicum, ‘Gilo’
- Simeon’s White Eggplant, Solanum aethiopicum , ‘Gilo’
- Comprido verde Claro, Solanum aethiopicum, ‘Gilo’
- Morro Redondo, Solanum aethiopicum, ‘Gilo’
Planting Method
In TESC Organic Farm’s heated greenhouse, all of the eggplant varieties were seeded in separate, 72-cell trays on March 13, 2024. 60 seeds were placed in each tray, leaving two rows at the end of each tray empty. Seeds were placed in approximately 1/4 inch dibbled holes, topped with soil, and watered. Seedlings are overhead watered daily, by hand.
Germination Observations
Soil temperature and ambient temperature was recorded. Soil temperature was recorded as an average between the four trays, measurements were recorded using a soil temperature meter. Air temperatures were determined using the temperature gauge located inside the greenhouse.
There were a few unexpected results such as seedling damage, and over-planting. 72 instead of 6o Morro Redondo, Solanum aethiopicum, seeds were planted. The over-planted variety was also the variety experiencing the most damage due to mice. While the foliage was completely damaged off many, new foliar growth has already been observed.
