Early Long Purple

Early Long Purple

Early Long Purple is a popular eggplant variety known for its slender, elongated shape and early maturity. This heirloom variety produces glossy, dark purple fruits that are typically 8 to 10 inches long. With a mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender flesh, Early Long Purple eggplants are a favorite for a variety of culinary uses.

Features

• As the name suggests, this variety matures quickly, usually within 70 to 75 days from transplanting, making it an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a fast harvest.
• The fruits are long and slender, with a smooth, dark purple skin. They can grow up to 10 inches in length and about 2 inches in diameter.
• The plants are compact, typically reaching a height of 24 to 30 inches, making them suitable for small gardens and container growing.
• Early Long Purple is known for its prolific yield, producing multiple fruits per plant over the growing season.
• The flesh is tender and has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, with fewer seeds compared to

Application

• Start seeds indoors 8 to 10 weeks before the last expected frost. Sow seeds in a seed-starting mix and keep them warm and moist until germination, which typically occurs in 7 to 14 days. Transplant seedlings outdoors once the soil has warmed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 60°F (16°C).
• Early Long Purple eggplants thrive in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting to enhance fertility.
• These eggplants require full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and side-dress with compost or a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season to support healthy growth and fruit production.
• Harvest eggplants when they are glossy and firm, typically around 8 to 10 inches long. Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the fruit from the plant, leaving a short stem attached. Regular harvesting encourages continued fruit production.

Storage

• Store Early Long Purple eggplant seeds in a cool, dry place. Keep them in an airtight container to protect from moisture and pests. Properly stored seeds can remain viable for up to three years.
• Freshly harvested eggplants can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Place them in a plastic bag or container to maintain their firmness and freshness.
• To freeze, slice the eggplants and blanch them in boiling water for two minutes, then transfer to an ice bath before drying and packaging them for the freezer. Frozen eggplants can be stored for up to 12 months.
• Eggplant slices can be dehydrated and stored in an airtight container for use in soups, stews, and other cooked dishes. This method preserves the nutritional content while extending shelf life.