342 
VEGETABLE GARDENING 
fruits will ripen considerably earlier than if the plants 
are kept in flats or beds until planting time. More or 
less hardening before planting in the field is an advan- 
tage. About 120 to 160 days are required to produce a 
crop of eggplant. 
455. Soil preparation. — Manure may be applied heavily 
for an early crop, like lettuce or radishes, to be followed 
by eggplants. While this vegetable will stand consid- 
erable drouth, there should be no lack of soil moisture 
if large fruits are desired. Early plowing and frequent 
harrowing are essential to secure proper conditions for 
planting. 
456. Fertilizing. — Early growth and strong foliage are 
important. To accomplish these ends nitrogen must be 
supplied in quickly available forms. The organic sources 
are also important to meet the later demands of the 
plants. Before transplanting, the soil should receive 
not less than half a ton of a high-grade mixture, and 
just as soon as the plants are established a top-dressing 
of nitrate. The latter application should be repeated 
once or twice if necessary, to encourage vigorous growth. 
Thoroughly decayed stable manure can often be used to 
good advantage. Some growers apply it in the hill 
before setting the plants, but this is unnecessary in 
warm, rich soils. 
457. Planting. — Eggplants should never be set in the 
field until the ground is thoroughly warm. Many grow- 
ers plant 3x4 feet apart, others 4x4 and some 2x3 feet. 
The vigor of the variety, climatic adaptability and the 
fertility of the soil are the main factors to consider when 
deciding upon distances. Four by 4 feet is not too much 
space when all conditions are advantageous. 
458. Cultivation. — The cultivation of the crop is a sim- 
ple matter. Moisture conservation is important. 
459. Marketing. — As the market demands rather large 
fruits, eggplants are not usually picked until full grown, 
