How to Grow Eggplants: Tips for Preparing and Protecting Seedlings in 2025
Eggplant is one of the most popular vegetable crops in gardens and backyard plots. In 2025, many gardeners are opting out of growing this crop in greenhouses due to the risk of infestation by the common spider mite in the region. Experts offer advice on how to properly grow a bountiful harvest of eggplants and protect the plants from pests.
This is reported by AgroReview
“If spider mites are spotted on eggplants, the entire greenhouse should be treated immediately with products such as Fitoverm, neem oil, biotoxibacillin, sulfur, or available mite control agents. Timely treatment will help prevent the spread of the pest.”
Features of Growing Eggplant Seedlings in 2025
One of the important aspects of a successful harvest is the proper preparation of eggplant seedlings. This crop particularly requires the right soil preparation and care to withstand heat and other adverse conditions. Last summer, many gardeners faced challenges due to high temperatures, so growing strong and high-quality seedlings is crucial for obtaining a high yield.
Soil Preparation and Care for Eggplant Seedlings
Eggplants respond well to organic fertilizers, but it is important to use low-fertility soil for planting. An excess of nutrients can hinder the formation of a strong root system, which is critical for the plant’s development. The roots need to grow actively in search of nutrients throughout the soil volume, forming a robust root hair system. This will provide the eggplants with the strength to develop vegetative mass, flowers, and fruits.
After the first sprouts appear, it is necessary to gradually fertilize the plants using complex organo-mineral products. One convenient option is the “EkoUrozhay” product, which contains micronutrients and microbiological components beneficial for eggplants and other vegetables. It is diluted according to the instructions and applied during seedling care.
It is especially important to consider the vulnerability of eggplants to fungal diseases such as fusarium and verticillium wilt. These diseases affect the plant’s vascular system through the roots, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves, which leads to yield loss. Infection often occurs during transplanting or repotting when the root system is damaged.
Protecting Eggplants from Diseases and Pests
To prevent infection, it is essential to inoculate the soil with the beneficial fungus Trichoderma — it suppresses the development of pathogens. Trichoderma should be introduced at all stages — from sowing to planting in open ground, ensuring protection for the plants throughout the entire growing and fruiting period.
An additional measure is the use of hay bacillus — a bacterium that penetrates the plant through the roots and destroys harmful fungi from the inside. At the first signs of wilting, hay bacillus is diluted in a ratio of 1:100 and generously poured onto the plants. This will help “rehydrate” the sick plant and stop the development of the infection.
A comprehensive solution includes biopreparations that contain both Trichoderma and hay bacillus, as well as other beneficial bacteria. For example, the “AgroTsimes” product is added to the soil during transplanting or planting — 100 grams per bucket of soil or a spoonful in the planting hole. This approach ensures reliable protection for the plants throughout the entire growing and fruiting period.
To achieve a high yield of eggplants in 2025, it is important to properly care for the plants and apply effective biological protection measures. This crop appreciates attention but is demanding in terms of growing conditions, so following the recommendations will ensure a positive result.