Heirloom / Open Pollinated Eggplants are heat loving plants requiring a long growing season. In cool or short season climates start eggplant indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost, keeping soil at 75-85°F, by applying bottom heat. Transplant heirloom eggplant after the danger of frost, once the soil is warm. For direct seeding eggplant outdoors, plant in full sun, ¼” deep, 12-18″ apart, in rows 2-2½’ apart. Germination occurs in 5-17 days in soil 70-85°F. Stake tall heirloom eggplant varieties to keep the fruits off the ground. Start picking eggplants as soon as they’re big enough to use, and are still glossy. Harvest with a knife or pruning shears. If eggplant fruits turn dull or brown, they are overripe.